Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State is currently facing mounting criticism following a series of allegations involving corruption, misappropriation of public resources, abandoned infrastructure projects, and questionable allocations of government property.

Residents and civic groups have accused the governor of large-scale land-grabbing and misuse of state assets. Reports indicate that a significant expanse of land near the Bauchi Central Market, formerly occupied by low-income residents, was forcibly cleared and later allocated to a company reportedly linked to the governor’s son, Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed. In another instance, the former NITEL zonal office building along Gombe Road was allegedly handed over to the governor’s wife under controversial circumstances.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar also weighed in on the issue, accusing the governor of prioritizing property acquisition over development. According to him, despite receiving allocations exceeding ₦9 billion monthly, the state has little to show in terms of infrastructural progress.

One major project under scrutiny is the Yalwa–Wikki road, awarded to a firm with alleged ties to the governor. Despite being commissioned over four years ago, the road remains incomplete, fueling concerns about contract mismanagement and embezzlement.

Meanwhile, financial records for the current fiscal year have raised further questions. The state government reportedly spent ₦1.3 billion on honoraria and sitting allowances, over ₦1 billion on food, and a staggering ₦3.4 billion on fuel and travel expenses for government officials. These expenditures have been described as excessive and insensitive, given the state’s economic challenges.

Opposition figures and civil society organizations have also condemned the appointment of family members to key public offices, including agencies like the Primary Health Care Agency and the State Universal Basic Education Board. Critics allege these moves were designed to facilitate the diversion of public funds.

Additionally, controversy surrounds the state’s streetlight maintenance project, managed by a company reportedly owned by the governor’s brother. Despite the huge sums allocated, streetlights are often turned off before midnight, posing safety concerns for residents.

Calls for accountability have intensified following the arraignment of the State Accountant-General, Sirajo Muhammad Jaja, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for allegedly laundering over ₦8 billion through state accounts. Civic groups have urged the EFCC to extend its investigation to other senior government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government and heads of key ministries and parastatals.

With public outrage growing, pressure is mounting on Governor Mohammed to respond transparently and take immediate action to address the allegations. Anti-corruption advocates insist that only a thorough, independent investigation can restore public confidence and ensure justice for the people of Bauchi State.