The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested five officials of the Katsina State Board of Internal Revenue for their alleged involvement in the diversion of N1.294 billion belonging to the state government. 
 
The suspects, identified as Rabiu Abdullahi, Sanusi Mohammed Yaro, Ibrahim M. Kofar Soro, Ibrahim Aliyu, and Nura Lawal Kofar Sauri, were apprehended following a petition from the Katsina State government. 
 
The petition alleged that the suspects colluded to divert funds received from international organisations such as the World Health Organisation, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Alliance for International Medical Action (ALIMA). 
 
Preliminary investigations conducted by the EFCC revealed that Rabiu Abdullahi, a former Director of Collections and current Permanent Secretary of the Board, authorised the opening of a bank account in the name of “BOIRS” at Sterling Bank. 
 
He allegedly appointed Sanusi Mohammed Yaro, Director of Revenue Account, and Ibrahim M. Kofar Soro as the sole signatories to this account. 
 
“Subsequently, the account became the primary channel through which all the funds were allegedly funnelled to the main beneficiary, NADIKKO General Suppliers, a company owned and controlled by Nura Lawal Kofar Sauri, an Assistant Director of Career Skills/Staff Welfare of the Board,” the EFCC stated.
 
Further investigations uncovered that Nura Lawal and his company, NADIKKO, were used to launder the stolen funds, which were subsequently traced to the various bank accounts of the suspects. 
 
The arrested officials are currently detained at the Kano Zonal Command of the EFCC. 
 
They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.