ICPC: Group seeks probe, possible prosecution of El-Rufai

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Northern Youth Alliance for Security on Monday called for the prosecution of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations reportedly being examined by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Saminu Dantala, the group urged anti-graft agencies to intensify investigations into financial transactions linked to the former governor.

NYAS cited alleged transfers amounting to N428,122,180.18 to undisclosed accounts and called for what it described as thorough scrutiny of the transactions.

The group also expressed concern over reports that security-related equipment and documents were recovered from El-Rufai’s Abuja residence, saying the claims, if established, could raise questions about national security and public trust.

It further referenced reports that the ICPC obtained a detention order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, to hold the former governor for 14 days pending investigation.

Dantala said the allegations under review include the reported disappearance of €1.4m and 180 transactions valued at over N2.1bn linked to Kaduna State’s Consolidated Revenue Account.

He, however, stressed the need for due process, urging the judiciary and anti-graft agencies to conduct a fair, impartial and transparent investigation.

“No individual should be above the law, regardless of political status,” the statement read.

The group demanded that if wrongdoing is established, appropriate legal action should follow. It also called for a comprehensive probe into all financial and security-related claims.

NYAS advocated stricter enforcement of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and stronger accountability mechanisms for public office holders.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from El-Rufai to the claims raised by the group.