Breaking News: EFCC Launches Probe into Former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai Over N423 Billion Mismanagement Allegations

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formed a dedicated team to investigate the alleged mismanagement of N423 billion by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and key members of his administration.

Sources revealed to The Nation that El-Rufai is expected to be summoned soon for questioning by the EFCC. This development follows a recommendation by the Kaduna State House of Assembly to probe El-Rufai for abuse of office and money laundering.

The ad hoc committee, led by Henry Zacharia, was established by the House of Assembly to scrutinize all financial activities, loans, and contracts awarded during El-Rufai's tenure. Zacharia presented the committee’s findings last Wednesday, highlighting that many loans obtained during El-Rufai's administration were misappropriated, and due process was often ignored.

Speaker of the Kaduna House of Assembly, Yusuf Liman, received the report, asserting that the El-Rufai administration embezzled a total of N423 billion, plunging the state into significant debt.

The assembly also called for investigations into all Commissioners of Finance and Accountants General who served under El-Rufai. The ad hoc committee’s recommendations include:

• Thorough investigation of all State Commissioners of Finance from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023.
• Investigation of all Accountant Generals during the same period.
• Scrutiny of the Chairmen of Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS) from 2018 to 2023.
• Investigation into the Managing Directors of the Kaduna Market Development and Management Company Ltd from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023.
• Inquiry into the coordinator of the state’s irrigation programs in Kubau Local Government Area.
• Investigation into the activities of Ms. Dolapo Popoola, the former Managing Director of AlL KAPSCO.
• Examination of Mr. Muyiwa Adekeye, Special Adviser on Media and Communication, regarding his involvement in contracts at the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC).

The lawmakers also uncovered that the El-Rufai administration allegedly paid N36 billion for illegal contractual transactions, in violation of state procurement laws.