By: Joy Musa Kefas
Senator Halliru Dauda Jika, a former lawmaker from Ganjuwa Local Government Area in Bauchi State, is once again in the spotlight as fresh allegations of forgery and contract fraud surface ahead of his anticipated 2027 governorship bid under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Jika, who began his political career in the Bauchi State House of Assembly and rose swiftly to become Speaker in 2007, was impeached the same year over corruption-related charges. Following his impeachment, he lost his re-election bid in 2011, marking a temporary setback in his political trajectory.
Loading ...Despite the controversy, Jika returned to national politics and secured a seat in the House of Representatives. Sources allege that his campaign was funded through fraudulent means, including duping an associate to raise money for his political ambitions. With the backing of Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Jika was appointed Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs a position he later used to consolidate influence, though he reportedly turned against Dogara in subsequent political maneuvers.
During his tenure in the National Assembly, Senator Jika was also active as a contractor. However, multiple sources claim that he routinely failed to execute awarded projects, instead collecting upfront payments and distributing portions of the funds to political allies. Investigations suggest that documents were fabricated to falsely indicate project completion, while physical inspections revealed otherwise.
Adding to the mounting scrutiny, a detailed report by the League Of Youth Democratic Watch (LYDW) revealed inconsistencies in Jika’s academic credentials and personal records. The group cited multiple discrepancies in his WAEC results, National Diploma dates, and even his birth certificates each listing different dates of birth. These findings have fueled accusations of forgery and misrepresentation in official documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
While no formal charges have been filed, anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC are reportedly aware of the allegations. Insiders suggest that previous investigations were quietly shelved, raising concerns about transparency and institutional accountability.
Despite the controversies, Senator Jika continues to enjoy support from influential political figures, including Governor Mohammed Bago and Hon. Muktar Betara. His recent defection to ADC and declaration to contest the 2027 governorship election has reignited debates about ethics, leadership, and the future of Bauchi State politics.
As the political landscape heats up, observers warn that the unresolved allegations could pose significant challenges to Jika’s campaign, especially in a climate increasingly demanding accountability and reform.
