The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has reaffirmed that former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (retd.), and Brigadier-General Ishaya Bauka (retd.) remain wanted for their alleged involvement in a N3 billion fraud case.
In a statement issued on Friday, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare dismissed claims that the duo had been cleared of charges following amendments to the case against them.
He clarified that while adjustments were made to the charges, they were never withdrawn, and both former military officers remain fugitives.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the charges against them were only amended, not withdrawn. Any claim that the amended charges exonerated them is fallacious and should be disregarded,” Bakare stated.
He further revealed that a bench warrant for their arrest remains in effect, urging the public to assist law enforcement in apprehending them.
“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,” he added.
According to the ICPC, it is common practice for prosecuting agencies to modify charges to proceed with cases involving detained suspects while keeping legal proceedings open for those evading arrest.
Usman and Bauka were originally charged alongside five other individuals in a case filed on April 17, 2023. Despite being served through their legal representatives, they failed to appear for arraignment, leading to the issuance of a bench warrant against them.
Bakare also disclosed that on February 4, 2025, one of the co-defendants, Adam Imam Yusuf, was apprehended at his residence in Gwagwalada, Abuja. However, Usman and Bauka remain on the run.
“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,” Bakare assured.
The ICPC reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice is served and vowed to continue efforts to bring the two fugitives to account.
