ICPC: Ex-naval chief Usman still on wanted list for N3bn fraud

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Jibrin Usman, is still on its wanted list.

Also on the ICPC’s wanted list is Brig.-Gen. Ishaya Bauka (rtd).

A statement issued by the ICPC spokesperson, Demola Bakare, on Friday, February 21, 2025, said the duo were wanted over alleged N3 billion fraud.

Bakare said there was still a subsisting arrest warrant against the two ex-military officers, noting that the criminal charges against them were never withdrawn.

He said any claim that the amended charges by ICPC have exonerated the duo of charges concerning embezzlement and abuse of office is fallacious and should be disregarded.

The ICPC spokesman noted: “It should be clearly stated that there is a subsisting arrest warrant against the two ex-military officers, whoever sees them could assist in bringing them to justice.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the charges against them were only amended not withdrawn.

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“ICPC does not clear anybody of a case already in court.”

Bakare explained that it was a normal practice for prosecuting agencies to amend charges and proceed against the available defendants in a case pending when those at large or on court bench warrants would be arrested.

Bakare said: “When those at large or court bench warrants are arrested, they would be added to manifest the initial charge.

“It should also be recalled that the ex-Naval chief in particular was charged along with five others in the original charge dated and filed on the 17th day of April, 2023.

“The charges were served on the Defendants by substituted means through their lawyers, yet they failed to submit themselves to the jurisdiction of the Court for arraignment.

“Prompted by the defendants’ refusal to come to court for their arraignment, the Commission sought and obtained a bench warrant from the trial court for their arrest.”

He said Adam Yusuf, the second defendant in the original charge, was arrested at his residence in the Gwagwalada area of Abuja on February 4.

The ICPC spokesperson stated that are underway by the commission to arrest Usman and others.

”The public is hereby assured that if they are arrested today, the ongoing charges will be amended to accommodate the allegations initially filed against them,” he added.

The Star