The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has reiterated that former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (retd.), and Brigadier-General Ishaya Bauka (retd.) remain on its wanted list over their alleged involvement in a N3 billion fraud.
In a statement issued by the Commission’s spokesperson, Demola Bakare, the ICPC dismissed claims that the two men had been cleared following amendments made to the charges against them. The Commission clarified that although the charges were amended, they were never withdrawn, and both individuals are still considered fugitives.
“For clarity, the charges against them were amended, not withdrawn. Any claim that the amended charges exonerate them is completely false and should be disregarded,” the statement read.
Bakare further emphasized that there is an active arrest warrant for Usman and Bauka and urged the public to assist law enforcement in locating them. “It is important to note that there is a valid arrest warrant for the two former military officers. Anyone who spots them should help in bringing them to justice,” he added.
The ICPC explained that prosecuting agencies often amend charges to continue proceedings against defendants in custody while keeping the case open for those who are evading arrest.
Usman and Bauka, along with five others, were initially charged in an original filing on April 17, 2023. Despite the charges being served through their legal representatives, the two former officers failed to appear for arraignment, leading to a bench warrant being issued for their arrest.
On February 4, 2025, one of their co-defendants, Adam Imam Yusuf, was arrested in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, but Usman and Bauka remain at large.
Bakare assured the public that efforts to apprehend the two fugitive ex-military officers are ongoing, and once arrested, they will face prosecution.
