Kaduna — Tension rose at the Kaduna State House of Assembly on Monday as a coalition of civil society organizations and political stakeholders staged a peaceful protest, pressing for updates on the ongoing legislative probe into the administration of former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai.
The protest was led by Ambassador Yerima Shettima, Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, and Aliyu Muhammad, Convener of the Coalition of Kaduna Stakeholders Forum. They 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.
Speaking to journalists, the coalition emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. “Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai must stop distracting the people of Kaduna State and prepare to face lawful accountability,” they 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 sought clarification on the progress of the probe, requesting that the Assembly elish an open and lawful platform for affected citizens—including traders, civil servants, and displaced families—to present grievances in an orderly manner.
Among the issues cited were alleged financial mismanagement and corruption, including claims of misappropriation of N423 billion in loans and state funds, diversion of N1.37 billion linked to an unexecuted light rail project, siphoning of N64.8 million by senior aides, and questionable payments and contracts totaling over N155 million. They also raised concerns over alleged human rights violations, unlawful detentions, executive overreach, controversial demolitions, and criticisms regarding the handling of communal and religious crises during El-Rufai’s tenure.
The coalition called on law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, to conduct investigations professionally and independently, following due process. They warned that failure to ensure accountability could trigger further lawful civic action.
Addressing the role of the media, the group urged journalists to continue balanced and courageous reporting, stating, “The struggle for accountability cannot succeed without a free, responsible, and vigilant press.”
Despite the strong rhetoric, the protesters committed to maintaining peaceful and lawful actions, emphasizing that their goal is justice, transparency, and the protection of the rights and dignity of Kaduna State residents.
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