A major controversy has erupted after operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) reportedly intercepted gold bars worth about ₦4 billion at the Aminu Kano International Airport.
The development has attracted widespread attention because the seized consignment was allegedly linked to former Zamfara State Governor and Senator, Abdul Aziz Yari Abubakar.
However, it is important to note that the allegations have not been proven in court, and Senator Yari has not publicly responded to the claims.
According to sources familiar with the operation, the gold bars were intercepted before they could be transported out of Nigeria. Moreover, investigators are said to be examining the circumstances surrounding the shipment and those allegedly connected to it.
A source within the anti-graft agency claimed the operation was carried out after suspicious movements were detected at the airport.
The source alleged that the gold bars were being moved through the airport with assistance from an airport security worker and other suspects.
According to the source, three individuals were apprehended during the operation.
Furthermore, investigators reportedly began questioning the suspects immediately after the seizure.
A senior airport security official, who requested anonymity, described how the interception allegedly unfolded.
According to the official:
“Our men on duty observed suspicious items concealed within 15 suitcases being loaded aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight destined for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and immediately alerted the EFCC, resulting in the interception of the physical gold bars.”
The statement has further fueled interest in the case.
Meanwhile, authorities are continuing efforts to determine the ownership and intended destination of the seized items.
Sources familiar with the investigation alleged that one of the suspects was an airport security officer identified as Aliyu Baffa.
Investigators also claimed that the suspects voluntarily provided information during questioning.
According to the allegations, the individuals reportedly linked the operation to a wider network involved in illegal mining activities.
The network was said to operate across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Kebbi states.
However, these claims remain allegations and have not been independently verified in court.
Moreover, authorities have intensified efforts to track illegal mineral exports and strengthen border security.
Sources further alleged that an associate of the former governor attempted to intervene following the seizure.
According to the claims, efforts were allegedly made to secure the release of the confiscated gold.
However, officials reportedly declined the request and advised that proper legal procedures should be followed.
In addition, reports suggested that a political associate linked to the former senator was later seen at the EFCC office in Kano.
The purpose of the visit has not been officially confirmed.
Meanwhile, Senator Yari has previously faced allegations related to illegal mining activities.
He has also been accused by critics of benefiting from proceeds connected to mining operations.
However, no court ruling has established his guilt regarding the latest claims.
At the time of filing this report, attempts to obtain Senator Yari’s reaction were reportedly unsuccessful.
Sources claimed that phone calls and text messages sent to him had not received a response.
Therefore, his side of the story remains unavailable at this stage.
