The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested former Chief of Naval Staff, Usman Jibrin, and Adam Yusuf, a Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kogi State, over the alleged diversion of more than N3 billion in public funds.

Both men are now set to face prosecution for their involvement in the fraudulent activities.
A statement issued by Demola Bakare, the ICPC’s Director of Public Enlightenment and Education, on Friday confirmed that Yusuf, who had been evading arrest, was apprehended at his residence in Gwagwalada, Abuja.

The commission’s investigation revealed that Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin allegedly orchestrated the fraud through Yusuf and another associate, former Brigadier General Ishaya Bauka Gangum.

The scheme reportedly involved the diversion of public funds using 92 fictitious companies that were not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Yusuf is accused of acting as a front for Jibrin, facilitating suspicious financial transactions for acquiring high-value properties.

Intelligence reports suggested that he purchased several immovable assets abroad, including properties in Dubai, through proxies.

The legal battle over these assets dates back to 2019 when a Federal High Court granted an interim forfeiture order on various properties linked to Jibrin and Yusuf.

However, in July 2022, the court vacated the order, ruling that the ICPC had failed to prove its case. The commission responded by filing an appeal, arguing that the ruling was unreasonable and unsupported by evidence.

The ICPC has traced the diverted funds to companies such as Lahab Integrated and Gate Coast Properties, leading to the acquisition of at least 18 properties. Four of these have been forfeited to the federal government, while legal proceedings continue over the remaining assets. The commission is also intensifying efforts to apprehend other suspects still at large.

Jibrin, who served as the 21st Chief of Naval Staff from 2014 to 2015, has faced several corruption allegations since leaving office, including a previous N600 million money laundering case. In 2024, the Federal High Court issued an arrest warrant for him in connection with a new N1.5 billion money laundering case brought by the ICPC.