ICPC Uncovers N3bn Corruption Scheme, Arrests Top Security Officials

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested Usman Jibrin, a former Chief of Naval Staff, and Adam Yusuf, a Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, over an alleged N3 billion fraud.

Jibrin, who served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2014 to 2015, was accused of orchestrating a large-scale corruption scheme in collaboration with former Brigadier General Ishaya Bauka Gangum (rtd.) and Yusuf, who had previously been on the run before his recent arrest in Gwagwalada, Abuja.

According to a statement by Demola Bakare, Director of Public Enlightenment and Education at ICPC, the investigation uncovered a fraudulent network of 92 fictitious companies, none of which were registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The fraudulent scheme allegedly facilitated the diversion of public funds into private entities linked to Jibrin and his associates.

ICPC's findings revealed that substantial portions of the illicit funds were funneled into Lahab Integrated, Gate Coast Properties, and other affiliated firms, leading to the acquisition of over 18 properties, including several filling stations.

As part of its ongoing legal actions, four of these properties have already been forfeited to the government, while the commission is aggressively pursuing legal proceedings to seize the remaining assets tied to the fraudulent transactions.

Meanwhile, the ICPC has intensified efforts to apprehend other suspects linked to the corruption scandal, ensuring that all those involved in the fraudulent diversion of funds are brought to justice.