The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Sokoto Zonal office has arraigned one Aliyu Mallam Yabo, an operation manager of Yabo Micro Finance Bank, before Justice Isah Muhammad Bargaja of the Sokoto State High Court on one-count charge bordering false declaration of assets.
Yabo’s trouble started on 29 January, 2019 when Yabo Micro Finance Bank submitted a petition against him. In the course of investigating the alleged offence, the suspect was given an Assets Declaration form but he refused or failed to declare his entire assets.
Count one reads: “That you, Aliyu Mallam Yabo on or about the 15th day of March, 2019 at Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Zonal Office, No. 7 Super Quarters Road, Off Tsafe Road, G.R.A Sokoto, Sokoto State, within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did an illegal act, to wit; failed, neglected and refused to declare your entire assets as provided under Section 27 of the Economic and Financial Crimes ( Establishment) Act, 2004, an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 27(3) Economic and Financial Crimes ( Establishment) Act, 2004.”
He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.
In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel Habila Jonathan asked for a date for trial to commence. Responding, the defense counsel, Ibrahim Hussaini prayed the court to grant his client bail on the grounds that the accused was faithful to the administrative bail granted him by the prosecution and had credible sureties.
Justice Bargaja granted the defendant bail in the sum of N500, 000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira), with one surety in like sum. The surety must be civil servant not below grade level 12 in State or Federal Service. The surety must deposit his letter of appointment, last promotion letter and Identity Card to the court registry.
The case has been adjourned to November 4, 2019 for trial.
