The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has launched a search for a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin (rtd.), over allegations of a N3 billion fraud.
The anti-corruption agency has also taken Adam Imam Yusuf, a Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, into custody. Yusuf is accused of playing a key role in the fraudulent activities.
Speaking with reporters, ICPC spokesperson Demola Bakare noted that the agency had been tracking Jibrin, Yusuf, and a retired Brigadier-General, Ishaya Bauka Gangum, for six months before obtaining a court-issued warrant for their arrest.
Bakare confirmed that Yusuf was eventually located at his residence in Gwagwalada, Abuja, where he was taken into custody. He will undergo further questioning and face legal proceedings. However, the other two suspects remain on the run.
“They are at large. They may not even be in the country. He (ex-naval chief) may not be in the country, I’ve not confirmed. We’ve been looking for them since. It is not a new case,” Bakare stated.
He further explained that the arrest warrant was issued in June 2024, and despite efforts to locate the suspects, only Yusuf has been apprehended so far. The search for the remaining two continues.
An earlier statement from the ICPC revealed that investigations linked Jibrin to the alleged fraud. The commission’s findings indicate that the former naval chief orchestrated the scheme through Yusuf and Gangum.
According to the statement, public funds were diverted using 92 fake companies that were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.
These funds were reportedly funneled into companies such as Lahab Integrated and Gate Coast Properties, leading to the acquisition of over 18 properties, including several filling stations.
“An investigation by the ICPC traced these funds to Lahab Integrated, Gate Coast Properties, and other affiliated companies, leading to the acquisition of over 18 properties, including filling stations. Four of these properties have been forfeited to the government so far, while legal proceedings continue over the remaining assets. The ICPC is also intensifying efforts to apprehend other suspects at large,” the statement read.
