Group Calls For Arrest Of El-Rufai Over Alleged ₦423 Billion Theft

A group known as the Kaduna Citizens Watch for Good Governance has petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), urging an immediate investigation into former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for his alleged involvement in a ₦423 billion theft.

The petition follows a report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly implicating El-Rufai and his appointees in misappropriation of loans and financial misconduct amounting to ₦423 billion.

Members of the group marched to the ICPC office on Wurno Road, Kaduna, on Wednesday to formally submit their petition, demanding the prompt arrest and investigation of El-Rufai.

Earlier on June 20, 2024, the group had staged a protest at the Kaduna State Government House, urging Governor Uba Sani to invite anti-graft agencies to apprehend his predecessor.

Victor Duniya, Chairman of the Kaduna Citizens Watch for Good Governance, addressed reporters after submitting the petition, revealing that similar petitions were lodged at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja and its zonal office in Kaduna.

Duniya emphasized, “Our petitions call for immediate investigations, arrests, and prosecutions of Mallam El-Rufai and his appointees implicated in the mismanagement and illegal financial activities highlighted in the Kaduna State House of Assembly ad hoc committee report.”

He expressed confidence in the anti-graft agencies’ ability to combat corruption effectively in Nigeria, stating that holding accountable those who misuse public funds would deter future misconduct by elected and appointed officials.