Ex-Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku Caught in N27bn Scandal

iexclusivenews – Darius Dickson Ishaku, former governor of Taraba State, has been apprehended by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an alleged N27 billion fraud.

The anti-graft agency arrested Ishaku as part of its ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria’s public sector.

Darius Dickson Ishaku Faces 15 Serious Charges

The EFCC has leveled 15 counts against the former governor, including criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds.

These charges stem from alleged offenses committed between 2015 and 2021, during Ishaku’s tenure as governor of Taraba State.

An EFCC source, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed, “Former Taraba State Governor, Darius Dickson Ishaku, was arrested for N27 billion fraud. He is to be arraigned on 15 charges and is in our custody.”

Allegations Against Darius Dickson Ishaku

The charges against Ishaku paint a picture of widespread financial misconduct involving funds belonging to both the Taraba State Government and Local Government Councils.

Some of the key allegations include:

EFCC’s Commitment to Accountability

The arrest of Darius Dickson Ishaku underscores the EFCC’s determination to hold public officials accountable for their actions.

While EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed the development, he declined to provide further details, likely due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.

As the case moves forward, Ishaku is expected to face trial for the alleged offenses. If found guilty, the former governor could face severe consequences for his actions, potentially including significant fines and imprisonment.

The charge sheet, as seen by Saturday Vanguard, provides further insight into the specific allegations against Ishaku. One count states:

“That you, DARIUS DICKSON ISHAKU, while being the Governor of Taraba State and BELLO YERO, while being the Permanent Secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taraba State, between 25th August 2015 and 21st March 2016 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, and in such capacity entrusted with dominion over certain property, to wit: an aggregate sum of N1,010,000,000 (One Billion and Ten Million Naira), which sum formed part of the 2.5% contingency funds belonging to the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Taraba State, committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said property, when you dishonestly diverted the said sum to your own use and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 315 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Laws of the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria 2007 and punishable under the same section.”

Implications for Nigerian Politics and Governance

The arrest of Darius Dickson Ishaku sends a strong message to other public officials that corruption will not be tolerated.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in combating financial misconduct among its leaders and the importance of strong anti-corruption measures.

As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be watching closely to see how this high-profile case is handled and what implications it may have for future efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in Nigerian governance.

The EFCC’s actions in this case demonstrate its commitment to investigating and prosecuting alleged corruption at all levels of government.

However, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will lead to lasting changes in the political landscape and a reduction in corruption among public officials.

As more details emerge about the case against Darius Dickson Ishaku, it is clear that this is a significant development in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against corruption.

The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for both the former governor and the broader efforts to promote integrity in public service.