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SPOTLIGHT
- El-Rufai accused of misappropriating N423 billion
- Loans were allegedly misused, and contracts awarded improperly during his tenure
- The House of Assembly calls for an investigation and potential prosecution of El-Rufai and others
- Suspension of current officials linked to the alleged misconduct is also recommended
The Kaduna State House of Assembly has recommended that former Governor Nasir El-Rufai be investigated and potentially prosecuted for the alleged misappropriation of N423 billion.
This recommendation stems from a report submitted by an ad hoc committee established to investigate finances, loans, and contracts awarded during El-Rufai’s administration from 2015 to 2023.
Presenting the report during Wednesday’s plenary session, committee chairman Henry Zacharia stated that many loans obtained under El-Rufai’s leadership were allegedly misused. He added that, in some instances, due process was not followed in securing these loans.
Upon receiving the report, Speaker of the House, Yusuf Liman, claimed that El-Rufai’s administration embezzled a total of N423 billion, leaving the state with substantial liabilities.
Consequently, the committee recommended that security and anti-corruption agencies investigate and potentially prosecute El-Rufai and other implicated officials. These individuals are accused of abuse of office through the irregular awarding of contracts, misappropriation of public funds, money laundering, and burdening Kaduna State with excessive debt.
Furthermore, the committee recommended the immediate suspension of the Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance, Shizer Badda, who held the same position under El-Rufai. The committee also recommended suspending the chairman of the state’s Universal Basic Education Board.
The report also advocated for a thorough investigation of other key appointees from the previous administration by relevant law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies.
