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The Northern Youth Alliance for Security has objected to the recent swearing-in by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over corruption allegations, describing it as an attempt to mislead the public in the context of ongoing legal proceedings.
El-Rufai had reportedly sworn by the Holy Quran, claiming he had not embezzled public funds during his tenure from 2015 to 2023, insisting that his entry into politics had been driven by a desire to serve rather than personal gain.
In a statement by its secretary-general, Lawal Hamisu Jankasa, the group dismissed the statement as a “tactic aimed at misleading the public”, noting that its timing raises concerns as it coincides with its arraignment by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
Jankasa said: “This accusation highlights the gravity of the allegations against El-Rufai. He is accused of receiving a staggering N289,826,998.12 as severance pay, an amount that far exceeds his rightful entitlement of N20,013,245.00.
“Such a discrepancy, exceeding 300% of his annual basic salary, indicates a potential misuse of public funds that cannot be overlooked.
“The ICPC investigation revealed that these funds were received knowingly and are part of the proceeds of corruption, violating the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, in particular section 18(2)(d).
“This legal framework exists to safeguard the integrity of our financial systems and protect public resources from misappropriation. El-Rufai’s claims of innocence are further complicated by a report released by an ad hoc committee of the Kaduna State Assembly, which in June 2024 accused his administration of misappropriating ₦432 billion.
“Such findings cannot be dismissed lightly, as they reflect a systemic problem within the Kaduna State Government during his administration.
“Furthermore, the ICPC has highlighted further troubling allegations, including deposits totaling $797,900 into El-Rufai’s domiciliary account by various individuals, raising further suspicions about the sources and legitimacy of these funds.”
The statement also highlights a specific allegation that El-Rufai and Joel Adoga conspired to conceal the origin of $10,000 in July 2019, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
He said: “As the ICPC proceeds with its investigations, we note that a separate charge has been filed against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule at the Kaduna State High Court, comprising serious charges of abuse of office, fraud and intent to commit fraud.
“The gravity of these allegations cannot be understated, and the public eagerly awaits the results of these proceedings. In light of these developments, we challenge El-Rufai to consider the implications of his oaths. While he has called on his predecessors to take similar oaths, we urge him to reflect on the weight of his own statements.
“Public opinion is no longer swayed by empty proclamations, especially when juxtaposed with mounting evidence of financial misconduct. The Northern Youth Alliance for Security calls on the citizens of Kaduna State and the Nigerian population at large to remain vigilant and discerning.
“It is critical that we hold our leaders accountable and ensure that public resources are safeguarded from corruption. The time has come for a thorough investigation that transcends political affiliations and serves the interests of justice.
“As we await the court’s decisions, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold good governance and the rule of law. We urge the ICPC and all relevant authorities to carry out their duties without fear or favour, ensuring that justice is served to the people of Kaduna State.
“In conclusion, we are united in the belief that the truth will ultimately prevail. The Northern Youth Security Alliance remains committed to promoting a society where integrity and accountability are paramount, and we will continue to counter any attempts to undermine these principles.”
