Former Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku Arrested by EFCC for Alleged N27bn Fraud

Former Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku has been arrested and detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for his alleged involvement in a staggering N27 billion fraud. The EFCC confirmed that Ishaku is facing trial on 15 counts, including criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and diversion of public funds.

The allegations date back to Ishaku’s tenure as governor from 2015 to 2021, during which he reportedly mishandled funds belonging to the Taraba State Government and various local government councils. Notably, he is accused of diverting over N1 billion from the 2.5% contingency fund of the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs between August 2015 and March 2016.

Additionally, Ishaku allegedly misappropriated N3.348 billion from local government councils for personal use and diverted N639 million for his own benefit. The EFCC’s charges extend to claims of misappropriation of N1.138 billion from the same contingency fund and the diversion of N193 million from Donga Local Government Council funds.

Other serious allegations include criminal breach of trust involving substantial amounts from Gassol, Gashaka, and Ardo Kola Local Government Councils, as well as the purchase of a duplex in Abuja for N23 million using state funds. Furthermore, he is accused of using N761 million to repay a loan for his company, Worthy Construction Limited.

EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed the developments, emphasizing the severity of the charges. The charge sheet details specific incidents, highlighting how Ishaku allegedly abused his position of trust while serving as governor.