Ex-Naval Chief Jibrin, 3 others cleared of financial misconduct, abuse of office allegations

The Federal High Court in Abuja has cleared former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman (rtd.), Brigadier General Ishaya Gamgum Bauka (rtd.), and two others of all allegations in an amended charge concerning embezzlement and abuse of office instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) following a petition by a Whistleblower dated December 11, 2020.

A media assistant to Jibrin, Christopher Sunday, confirmed the development to the press in Abuja on Tuesday, disclosing that the prosecution had amended the charges, effectively exonerating the retired naval chief and three of his co-accused.

He said, “the court’s decision to continue the case with the amended charge came after the prosecution moved a motion for amendment, noting that it was unable to clearly link the Ex Naval boss to the transactions, leaving another defendant, Adamu Imam as the only individual now facing trial in the matter.”

During Monday’s court session, Adamu was arraigned on a three-count charge to which he pleaded not guilty.

The prosecution emphasised the gravity of the allegations, prompting the defense counsel to apply for bail.

The court granted bail under stringent conditions, including a ₦30 million bond, a surety with a landed property valued at no less than the bail sum within the court’s jurisdiction, travel restrictions, verification of the surety’s property by the court registrar, and an affidavit of verification.

Adamu was ordered to remain in a correctional facility until all bail conditions were met.

Presiding Judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, adjourned the trial to May 6, 7, and 8, 2025.

This ruling effectively dismisses previous claims linking Vice Admiral Jibrin Usman to financial misconduct, reinforcing that the allegations against him lacked merit.

The exoneration marks a significant legal victory for the former naval boss, affirming his reputation as a respected statesman.

The case had initially drawn public attention when Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Jibrin, Ishaya Bauka, and Adamu on May 4, 2024 in respect of the money laundering charges filed by the ICPC based on the whistleblower’s petition.

The ICPC had alleged that Jibrin, who served as Chief of Naval Staff between 2014 and 2015, used his co-accused as fronts to accumulate illicit wealth within and outside Nigeria, listing several properties and vehicles allegedly acquired through fraudulent means.

Following months of legal proceedings, the court’s latest decision has put those claims to rest regarding Jibrin and three others.

The trial against Adamu, however, will continue as the prosecution presents its case.