PDP calls for investigation of former Kaduna Gov Nasir el-Rufai
By Innocent Raphael
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna has urged Governor Uba Sani to involve anti-corruption agencies in investigating and prosecuting his predecessor, Nasir el-Rufai.
This call follows the recommendations of an ad hoc committee of the Kaduna House of Assembly, which has accused el-Rufai of financial misconduct during his administration from 2015 to 2023.
The committee’s report, released on Wednesday, alleges that el-Rufai’s administration engaged in the diversion of public funds and money laundering. It claims that many of the loans acquired during his tenure were misappropriated for purposes other than those intended.
Yusuf Liman, the Speaker of the Kaduna Assembly, emphasized the gravity of the allegations, stating that el-Rufai’s actions breached his constitutional oath of office and led to the state incurring unnecessary and excessive debts. Liman called for these allegations to be referred to law enforcement agencies for further investigation.
In response, the PDP, through a statement by its spokesperson Abraham Catoh, expressed support for the committee’s findings, asserting that they validate the party’s long-standing criticisms of el-Rufai’s financial management.
The PDP called on Governor Sani to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) to investigate and recover any misappropriated funds.
The PDP’s statement reads, “The PDP calls on Governor Uba Sani to invite the EFCC and ICPC to investigate and recover all monies looted by Nasir el-Rufai and his associates, and to prosecute those found guilty as recommended by the committee’s report.” The party also highlighted the importance of this action for promoting transparency and good governance.
The PDP commended the House of Assembly and the committee members for their diligent work and dedication to accountability.
They noted that Governor Sani’s previous support for the loan applications, during his tenure as a senator, should prompt him to take decisive action to clear his name and uphold public trust.
El-Rufai has dismissed the committee’s report as politically motivated, but the PDP remains firm in its stance, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and legal action to ensure justice and transparency in Kaduna State’s governance.
