Group Raises Fresh Allegations Against El-Rufai, Seeks House Intervention
A coalition under the Kaduna State Stakeholders Forum has formally submitted a petition to the Kaduna State House of Assembly, calling for legislative action over allegations of financial mismanagement and human rights violations during the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The petition was presented to the Speaker of the House, Yusuf Liman, following a peaceful rally held in support of the Federal Government and the Kaduna State Government. The delegation was led by the Forum’s Chairman alongside Yerima Shettima.
Addressing journalists after the submission, Shettima outlined what he described as serious allegations of corruption and financial impropriety, referencing findings reportedly linked to a probe by the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
According to the petitioners, the allegations include the purported misappropriation of ₦423 billion in loans and other state funds. The Forum also alleged that ₦1.37 billion earmarked for a proposed light rail project was diverted, with no visible execution of the project.
The petition further raised accusations involving senior aides in alleged money laundering activities, including claims that ₦64.8 million was siphoned from state accounts. It also cited an additional alleged misappropriation of over ₦155 million through questionable cash payments and contract arrangements.
The Forum stressed that the claims require a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation to ensure accountability and restore public confidence in governance.
Beyond financial matters, the petition highlighted concerns over alleged human rights violations during the period under review. Among the issues raised was the reported unlawful arrest and prolonged detention of nine Adara elders from Southern Kaduna. The group cited a ruling by the Federal High Court which reportedly found that the individuals were detained for months without trial, constituting a breach of their fundamental rights.
The petition also alleged executive overreach, claiming that the arrests were carried out on executive orders, raising concerns about abuse of state authority. Additionally, civil society organizations were said to have accused the former administration of failing to adequately protect vulnerable communities during recurring violence in Southern Kaduna.
Critics further alleged bias in the handling of ethno-religious conflicts, as well as controversial security crackdowns, including the 2015 Zaria crisis involving members of the Islamic Movement, which drew widespread criticism and allegations of human rights violations.
Responding to the delegation, Speaker Liman assured the group that the petition had been duly received and would be given prompt attention in line with legislative procedures and constitutional responsibilities.
The Kaduna State Stakeholders Forum maintained that both the rally and the petition were conducted peacefully and in accordance with democratic principles. The group urged the House of Assembly and relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the allegations and to take appropriate legal steps where necessary.
