ICPC Launches Manhunt for Ex-Naval Chief Over Alleged N3bn Fraud
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has launched a manhunt for former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin (rtd.), over an alleged N3 billion fraud,Daily Trust reports.
In connection with the case, ICPC operatives have also arrested Adam Imam Yusuf, a Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, for his alleged role in the fraudulent scheme.
Speaking to our correspondent, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare confirmed that the agency had been trailing Jibrin, Yusuf, and a retired Brigadier-General, Ishaya Bauka Gangum, for the past six months. After failing to locate them, the commission sought and obtained a court-issued warrant for their arrest.
ALSO READ: ATBU Matriculates 4,364 Students For 2024/2025 Academic Session
Bakare revealed that Yusuf was finally apprehended at his residence in Gwagwalada, Abuja, and is now in custody for further interrogation. He added that efforts are ongoing to locate and prosecute the remaining suspects.
“They are at large, and we suspect they may not even be in the country. We’ve been searching for them for months. The arrest warrant was issued in June 2024, but we couldn’t track them down until now. We have managed to arrest one suspect, while the hunt for the other two continues,” Bakare stated.
He further disclosed that ICPC investigations uncovered a fraudulent scheme allegedly masterminded by the former naval chief, involving the diversion of public funds through Yusuf and Gangum.
According to the ICPC, the scheme relied on 92 fictitious companies that were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. The investigation traced the diverted funds to Lahab Integrated, Gate Coast Properties, and other associated entities, which were used to acquire at least 18 properties, including filling stations.
“So far, four properties have been forfeited to the government, while legal proceedings continue for the remaining assets. The ICPC is also intensifying efforts to apprehend the other suspects still at large,” Bakare added.
