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…No one is above the law-Speaker
From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Civil society groups on Monday stormed the Kaduna State House of Assembly, demanding an update on the ongoing legislative probe into the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and calling for accountability over alleged corruption and human rights violations.
The protest, led by Yerima Shettima, Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, and Aliyu Muhammad, Convener of the Coalition of Kaduna Stakeholders Forum, was described as a peaceful follow-up to an earlier public address in which the coalition urged the former governor to “stop distracting the people of Kaduna State” and face lawful scrutiny.
The protest leaders submitted a formal letter to the Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly before dispersing peacefully, reiterating their commitment to civic engagement and democratic processes in pursuit of justice for the people of Kaduna State.
While, responding, Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, Yusuf Dahiru Leman, defended the body’s probe into alleged misappropriation of ₦432 billion under former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration.
Leman stated that the assembly set up a committee in June 2024 to investigate the allegations and submitted its findings to relevant authorities. “We share your pains and stand by our documented findings,” he said, responding to critics, including El-Rufai.
The Speaker emphasized that the assembly’s role is constitutional and warned against distractions. “Anybody found wanting will face the full wrath of the law,” Leman said, adding, “No one is above the law.”
Leman also expressed support for peaceful protests, saying, “If not that I’m elected, I would have joined you in the protest.” He urged citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
Addressing journalists and supporters at the Assembly complex, the group said its visit was aimed at seeking clarity on the status of the legislature’s investigation into the previous administration.
“We are here to ask a legitimate question on behalf of the people: What progress has been made in the ongoing legislative probe, and what steps are being taken to ensure that justice is not delayed?” the coalition said in a statement read by Muhammad.
The stakeholders referenced allegations raised during the Assembly’s probe, including claims of misappropriation of ₦423 billion in loans and state funds during El-Rufai’s tenure.
They also cited allegations that ₦1.37 billion earmarked for a light rail project was diverted into private accounts without execution of the project.
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Further accusations mentioned by the coalition include the alleged laundering of ₦64.8 million by senior aides and the misappropriation of over ₦155 million through disputed cash payments and contracts.
The group called for transparency in the investigative process and urged the Assembly to establish a public platform where affected citizens, including traders, civil servants, and displaced families could present grievances in a lawful and orderly manner.
Beyond financial allegations, the coalition highlighted claims of human rights abuses and authoritarian governance under the former administration.
These include the controversial arrest and prolonged detention of Adara community leaders, which a Federal High Court reportedly ruled unlawful, as well as accusations of executive overreach and suppression of dissent.
They also referenced longstanding criticism surrounding the handling of communal and ethno-religious conflicts in the state, including the 2015 Zaria crisis involving members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, as well as demolitions of homes and businesses and the introduction of laws civil society groups described as punitive.
The protest came amid reports that El-Rufai recently visited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The coalition urged anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to conduct investigations “with professionalism, independence, and thoroughness” and in line with due process.
While insisting that no one is above the law, the group warned that citizens would continue to pursue all lawful avenues to ensure accountability if investigations are not handled transparently.
The stakeholders also appealed to journalists to remain vigilant and uphold press freedom in the public interest.
They argued that democratic accountability depends heavily on a free and responsible press, urging balanced and courageous reporting on the unfolding developments.
“Our position is simple and lawful: No individual is bigger than democratic institutions,” the coalition said.
“Accountability strengthens democracy, protects citizens, and sets necessary precedents for future leadership.”
