The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Usman Zakari, the Chief Bailiff of the Gombe State High Court, over an alleged N9.8 million fraud. The case, which is being presided over by Justice Haruna H. Kereng, was brought before Gombe State High Court 3.
According to an official statement released via the EFCC’s verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Zakari was arraigned on July 2 on a single count of criminal misappropriation. The charge stems from an incident in October 2023, when Zakari, acting in his official capacity as the court’s Chief Bailiff, was entrusted with executing the sale of a property following a legal judgment.
The EFCC alleges that Zakari sold the property for N14 million but diverted N9.8 million from the proceeds, which was meant to be returned to the rightful owner. The agency stated that this act constitutes a clear breach of trust and abuse of office.
During his court appearance, Zakari pleaded not guilty to the charge. The EFCC’s counsel urged the court to set a date for trial and requested that Zakari be remanded in the Gombe Correctional Centre pending the outcome of the proceedings. However, his defense counsel submitted a bail application, arguing that his client should be granted bail given his status as a long-serving court official.
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After careful deliberation, Justice Kereng granted Zakari bail, citing his position within the judiciary as a mitigating factor. The court, however, emphasized the need for strict adherence to the bail conditions and scheduled the next hearing for July 30, 2025, when the full trial is expected to commence.
This case underscores the EFCC’s renewed commitment to holding public officials accountable, regardless of their rank or affiliation. As anti-graft agencies ramp up efforts to sanitize Nigeria’s public institutions, the trial of Usman Zakari is being closely watched by legal observers and the general public alike.
The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how the judiciary deals with internal corruption and abuse of authority within its own ranks.
