Protesters Back EFCC, ICPC Probe of El-Rufai in Kaduna
Hundreds of protesters on Thursday stormed major streets in Kaduna metropolis in support of the ongoing investigation of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission.
The protesters, under the umbrella of the Nasiriya Movement, called for an open public trial of the former governor and others allegedly involved in the misappropriation of state funds during his eight years in office. They alleged that more than ₦432 billion was misappropriated under his administration.
Marching through major roads in the Kaduna metropolis, the demonstrators urged the anti-graft agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation and ensure that any funds found to have been misappropriated are fully recovered.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the National President of the Nasiriya Movement, Alhaji Garkuwa Ibrahim Babuga, said justice must take its course without interference.
“We believe that more than ₦400 billion of taxpayers’ money was misappropriated under the previous administration. The former governor must not be set free until he refunds our money,” Babuga said.
He also alleged that thousands of workers were disengaged during El-Rufai’s tenure without payment of gratuities and other entitlements, leaving many in hardship.
“Several affected workers have since become bedridden, while others are struggling to secure accommodation due to the sudden loss of income and benefits,” he added.
Babuga stated that the group would sustain the protest until justice is served, warning that members would mobilise to Abuja if dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation.
Also speaking, a leading female protester, Mrs. Patience John, commended the anti-corruption agencies for initiating the probe, describing it as a step toward accountability and transparency in governance.
She further alleged that the former governor disregarded court orders during demolition exercises in Kaduna metropolis, worsening the plight of affected residents.
The protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as “Thank you EFCC for probing El-Rufai,” “El-Rufai must refund our ₦432bn,” and “Uba Sani must continue to deliver Kaduna,” while calling on relevant authorities to ensure due process in the ongoing investigation.
