From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, yesterday called for a comprehensive probe of the administration of ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging financial impropriety and abuse of office during his tenure.
Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, Sani urged security and anti-corruption agencies to investigate what he described as allegations of mismanagement of public funds running into hundreds of billions of naira under the previous government.
He specifically called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to act on the indictment by the Kaduna State House of Assembly and ensure full accountability.
Sani alleged that between 2015 and 2023, Kaduna State witnessed hardship, insecurity, demolitions, ns and human rights violations, insisting that the period represented one of the most difficult eras in the state’s history.
The former lawmaker also questioned El-Rufai’s democratic credentials, citing the arrest and detention of journalists, activists, clerics,s and community leaders during the administration.
He further urged security agencies to intensify investigation into the disappearance of political activist Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who has been missing since 2019.
Sani’s remarks followed recent comments by El-Rufai during an interview on Arise TV, where the former governor criticised the current administration.
Describing El-Rufai’s position as hypocritical, Sani said the ex-governor had vigorously campaigned for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 elections and could not now discredit the same government for political convenience.
“You cannot promote a candidate as the best option yesterday and turn around today to attack the same administration,” he said.
Sani also claimed that El-Rufai lost political relevance before leaving office, pointing to what he described as the ruling party’s poor performance in parts of the state during the last general elections.
He commended what he termed a reduction in kidnappings under Governor Uba Sani and urged residents to support ongoing peace efforts.
Declaring his political stance ahead of 2027, Sani affirmed support for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani, while maintaining that Nigerians are free to choose credible candidates.
He, however, cautioned that opposition must not be reduced to what he called a “charade of politicians” who contributed to Nigeria’s challenges since 1999 and are now presenting themselves as alternatives.
As the 2027 elections approach, Sani urged political actors to respect zoning and power rotation principles, stressing that competence, integrity,y and national cohesion must guide leadership choices.
