Kaduna stakeholders storm assembly, demand update on El-Rufai probe

2026-02-16 - 13:19

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo Kaduna — Tension simmered at the Kaduna State House of Assembly on Monday as a coalition of civil society groups and political stakeholders staged a peaceful protest, demanding updates on the ongoing legislative probe into the administration of former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai. The protesters, led by Ambassador Yerima Shettima, Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, and Aliyu Muhammad, Convener of the Coalition of Kaduna Stakeholders Forum, submitted a formal letter to the Speaker of the House, urging lawmakers to make public the status of their investigation into the immediate past administration. Addressing journalists before the submission, the coalition said it was acting on behalf of citizens seeking transparency, accountability, and justice. “Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai must stop distracting the people of Kaduna State and prepare to face lawful accountability,” the group declared. “Immunity no longer applies once a public officer leaves office. No investigation into matters of public interest should be allowed to stall indefinitely.” The coalition queried the progress made so far by the House in its probe, insisting that democratic institutions must demonstrate their ability to hold leaders accountable after leaving office. “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 justice is not delayed?” the group asked. The protesters also urged the Assembly to establish what they described as an open and lawful platform where affected citizens — including traders, civil servants, and displaced families — can present grievances in an orderly manner. The coalition referenced allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement reportedly uncovered during the Assembly’s investigation. Among the claims cited were the alleged misappropriation of N423 billion in loans and state funds, diversion of N1.37 billion linked to an unexecuted light rail project, alleged siphoning of N64.8 million by senior aides, and questionable payments and contracts amounting to over N155 million. Beyond financial issues, the stakeholders raised concerns over alleged human rights violations and governance practices during the previous administration, including claims of unlawful detention of community leaders, executive overreach, suppression of dissent, controversial demolitions, and criticisms surrounding the handling of communal and religious crises in parts of the state. They also referenced public concerns about the Zaria crisis and other security challenges that occurred during the tenure of the former governor. As El-Rufai reportedly visits the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the coalition called on anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to act with “professionalism, independence, and thoroughness,” insisting that investigations must follow due process. The group warned that failure to pursue accountability could provoke further lawful civic action, stressing that citizens would explore “all legal options” to ensure justice is served. The coalition also appealed to journalists to sustain what it described as courageous and balanced reporting. “The struggle for accountability cannot succeed without a free, responsible, and vigilant press,” the group said, urging media organisations to remain committed to truth and democratic values. Despite the strong rhetoric, the protesters maintained that their actions would remain peaceful and within the ambit of the law. “Our objective is justice, transparency, and the protection of the rights and dignity of the people of Kaduna State,” the conveners said.