By Atoyebi Nike
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Usman Zakari, Chief Bailiff of the Gombe State High Court, for allegedly converting N9.82 million from a court-ordered property auction to personal use.
EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed on Thursday that Zakari was arraigned on Wednesday before Justice M.A. Kereng of the Gombe State High Court on a one-count charge of dishonest conversion.
According to the EFCC, Zakari handled the auction of a property tied to judgment enforcement in case GM/329M/2023, which sold for N14 million. However, only N4.18 million was remitted to the judgment creditor, Ahmed Umaru, while the remaining funds were allegedly misappropriated by Zakari.
The offence, the EFCC said, violates Section 308 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria, and is punishable under Section 309.
Zakari pleaded not guilty during the arraignment. Prosecution counsel M.O. Tijani asked the court to remand the defendant in the Gombe Correctional Centre pending trial.
However, Zakari’s lawyer, Yusuf Aliyu, sought bail, which the judge granted on self-recognisance, citing Zakari’s status as a court official. The case has been adjourned to July 30 for trial commencement.
