In a rare move for a public official, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Echuseh Audu, has voluntarily reported herself to security agencies and investigative authorities. The decision follows social media allegations accusing her of diverting massive quantities of relief materials intended for the state’s most vulnerable residents.
Audu has formally approached the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), along with the Taraba State Ministry of Justice. She is requesting a comprehensive investigation into claims that 10,000 bags of rice and 1,000 cartons of groundnut oil were diverted and sold outside the state.
Speaking to the press on Sunday, Audu emphasized that her proactive stance is rooted in the need to protect the agency’s reputation.
”An allegation was made; keeping silent by law means I have consented. We have worked so hard to build a reputation for Taraba SEMA and to support the vulnerable,” she stated.
She further noted that the agency relies heavily on the trust of international donor organizations. Unchecked rumors, she warned, could stifle future humanitarian partnerships and aid for internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Taraba.
The SEMA boss pointed out the logistical absurdity of the claims, noting that the volume of goods mentioned—roughly equivalent to two full trailer loads—would be nearly impossible to move and sell clandestinely. She challenged her accusers to provide verifiable proof rather than social media hearsay.
”If I am guilty, I should be brought to justice,” Audu said. “If not, I should be cleared, because in the future, these allegations can be used against me.”
The authorities have already swung into action. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Jalingo has issued an invitation to Abdulmumin Imam, the individual identified as the source of the allegations.
A letter signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Idoko James requests Imam’s presence on April 1, 2026, to assist in an investigation regarding cyber-bullying, criminal defamation of character, and criminal intimidation.
As the state awaits the outcome of the probe, Audu maintains that she is ready for a transparent, evidence-driven process to determine the truth.
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