Bashir Jamoh, Ex-NIMASA DG, in ICPC custody amid abuse of office probe

Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have taken into custody Bashir Jamoh, former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Sources disclosed that Jamoh, who led NIMASA between 2020 and 2023, was arrested after reportedly failing to respond to several invitations issued by the commission following petitions against him.

One source said, “The ICPC picked him up after he failed to honour multiple invitations. He is currently being investigated for abuse of office during his tenure at NIMASA.”

When contacted, ICPC spokesman John Odey confirmed the arrest but declined to provide details of the allegations. “I will get back as soon as I have information on the reason for his arrest,” he said.

About NIMASA

NIMASA is a federal agency tasked with regulating and promoting maritime activities in Nigeria. Its mandate includes ensuring the safety and security of ships and vessels, promoting maritime development, protecting the marine environment, and enforcing maritime laws and regulations.

Alleged ₦1.5 Trillion Fraud Probe

In 2021, Jamoh himself wrote to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) requesting an investigation into claims that he misappropriated ₦1.5 trillion, alongside $9.5 million, into personal accounts. The allegations were first raised by Jackson Ude, who accused Jamoh of diverting the funds.

In response, Jamoh called for a “thorough and painstaking” EFCC investigation to clear his name. However, reports indicate that the EFCC had yet to take action on the matter prior to his ICPC detention.

The ICPC’s ongoing probe underscores renewed scrutiny of public officeholders and highlights concerns over transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

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