A High Court in Abuja has warned that it may revoke the bail granted to Yisa Usman, the sacked Deputy Director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), due to alleged misconduct and violations of bail conditions. The warning came as his trial officially commenced on charges of corruption and financial mismanagement linked to alleged fraud within the examination body.
The Fraud Allegations
Yisa Usman, a former high-ranking official at JAMB, was dismissed in 2023 following an investigation into missing funds within the agency. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) subsequently charged him with multiple counts of fraud, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds.
According to the EFCC’s case file, Usman allegedly diverted millions of naira meant for operational expenses into personal accounts, falsified financial records, and engaged in other corrupt practices that undermined the integrity of the national examination body.
Bail Violation Claims and Court’s Warning
Despite being granted bail on the condition that he refrains from interfering with witnesses and the investigation, prosecutors informed the court that Usman had engaged in activities that could obstruct justice.
“The defendant has been found violating the conditions of his bail, engaging in direct or indirect communication with key witnesses, and failing to meet some of the court’s requirements,” the prosecuting counsel told the judge.
Justice Adebayo Salami, presiding over the case, expressed strong displeasure at the reported violations and warned Usman that his bail could be revoked if further infractions occurred. “Bail is a privilege, not a right,” Justice Salami emphasized. “Any further breach will result in immediate revocation, and the defendant will be remanded in custody.”
Defense Response and Legal Maneuvers
Usman’s defense team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Rotimi Balogun, denied the allegations, arguing that the claims were exaggerated and that the prosecution was seeking to intimidate their client.
“My client has adhered to the bail conditions and remains committed to proving his innocence in this case,” Balogun stated, adding that they would challenge any attempt to revoke bail without substantial proof.
Public Reactions and Implications
The case has drawn significant public attention, given the critical role JAMB plays in Nigeria’s education system. Civil society groups and anti-corruption advocates have called for a thorough and transparent prosecution, viewing the case as a litmus test for Nigeria’s fight against public sector corruption.
“This case represents a broader issue of accountability in Nigeria’s education sector,” said Professor Aminu Bello, an education policy expert. “JAMB is a critical institution, and ensuring financial integrity within it is crucial for the future of our students.”
What’s Next?
The trial is set to continue next month, with key witnesses expected to testify against Usman. Meanwhile, the court has ordered the EFCC to provide additional evidence supporting its claims of bail violations before making a final decision on revocation.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the case impacts the country’s ongoing efforts to curb corruption in public institutions.
Stay tuned to TheLink News for updates on this developing story.
