Kofoworola Odozi
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reaffirmed that Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (retired), a former Chief of Naval Staff, and retired Brigadier General Ishaya Bauka are still wanted for their alleged involvement in a N3 billion fraud case.
Ongoing Legal Pursuit
According to ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare, the duo remains on the commission’s wanted list despite recent amendments to the charges against them. Bakare clarified in a statement issued in Abuja that any claims suggesting the amended charges have exonerated them from allegations of embezzlement and abuse of office are false and misleading.
“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,” Bakare emphasized. He further clarified that the charges were modified but not withdrawn, affirming that ICPC does not absolve individuals of cases already in court.
Failure to Appear in Court
The commission explained that both Usman and Bauka, along with five other individuals, were initially charged on April 17, 2023. Despite being served through their legal representatives, they failed to appear in court for their arraignment, prompting the ICPC to obtain a bench warrant for their arrest.
Efforts to apprehend the accused individuals are ongoing. Bakare noted that Adam Yusuf, the second defendant in the original charge, was arrested on February 4, 2025, in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Public Assistance Sought
The ICPC has urged members of the public to assist in locating and reporting any sightings of the wanted individuals. Bakare assured that if arrested, the ongoing legal process would be updated to include the initial allegations against them.
The commission remains committed to ensuring accountability and justice in the fight against corruption, reinforcing its stance that no individual is above the law.
