Former Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Shema, has pleaded not guilty to the 22-count corruption charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and was subsequently granted bail at the sum of N1 billion.

Shema was arraigned alongside three others on Tuesday before Justice Maikaita Bako of the Katsina State High Court.

The EFCC accused him of financial misappropriation and abuse of office when he was Governor of Katsina State between 2012 and 2015.

Shema was said to have misappropriated over N11 billion belonging to the State; he is also accused of forging government documents.

The three other accused persons are: Rufai Safana, Sani Makana and Lawal Dankaba.

Justice Bako first ruled that the court had jurisdiction to entertain the case before ordering that the charges be read to the accused persons and their pleas taken.

After the defendants pleaded not guilty, the trial judge granted them bail at N1 billion and one surety each. He then adjourned the case to March 28 for continuation of hearing.