Former Taraba State Governor, Ishaku, Arrested by EFCC

In a stunning development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reportedly detained former Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, over allegations of a staggering N27 billion fraud.

Sources close to the anti-graft agency confirmed to our correspondent that Ishaku, who held office for eight years until 2023, was taken into custody at his Abuja residence on Friday.

The ex-governor is currently being held at the EFCC’s custody while at least 15-count charges are being prepared against him.

The EFCC’s action is a culmination of an extensive covert investigation that began shortly after Ishaku left office, according to sources within the commission.

It was alleged that during his tenure, the former governor perpetrated numerous financial improprieties, with the EFCC amassing compelling evidence against him.

As per their standard procedure, EFCC operatives arrested Ishaku after he failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the alleged misappropriation of funds.

The EFCC’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the ex-governor’s detention but declined to provide further details.

The arrest of Ishaku has sent shockwaves through the political circles in Taraba State, with many questioning the extent of his alleged corruption during his time as governor.

The scandal comes amidst a larger crackdown on financial malfeasance by the EFCC, with the commission currently embroiled in a tussle with former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, over allegations of N80.2 billion fraud.

The timing of Ishaku’s arrest could not be more critical for Nigeria, a country that has been struggling to address endemic corruption for decades.

The EFCC’s renewed efforts to hold high-ranking officials accountable for alleged financial misdeeds may signal a shift towards a more transparent and accountable political landscape.

For the people of Taraba State, the revelation of Ishaku’s alleged corruption may be a painful reminder of the cost of misgovernance and the need for accountability in public service.

References and Citations:

• Daily Trust – EFCC arrests ex-governor over N27bn fraud
• Leadership – EFCC arrests ex-Taraba gov, Ishaku over N9.3bn fraud
• Daily Post – EFCC arrests former governor over Alleged N27bn fraud

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