The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has initiated an investigation into the alleged mismanagement of N423 billion by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and key members of his administration. The probe will involve the ex-governor, former Finance commissioners, accountants-general, and other top officials who served from May 29, 2015, to May 29, 2023.
This move follows a report from the Ad-Hoc Committee of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which uncovered substantial financial discrepancies during El-Rufai's tenure. The committee's findings included unauthorized withdrawals, overpayments, and unutilized loans, amounting to significant financial losses for the state.
Key points from the committee's report revealed:
- N423,115,028,072.88 siphoned from state coffers.
- $1.4 million withdrawn from the Kaduna State Economic Transformation Account.
- Contractors and individuals directed to refund N55,590,637,911.41 for uncompleted work, overpayments, or misappropriation.
- The state incurred N98.9 billion in domestic loans and $758.1 million in foreign loans, mostly without due process.
- The total value of contracts awarded was N510.4 billion, with only N198.9 billion paid out.
The EFCC's Special Task Force is reviewing the allegations and plans to invite El-Rufai and his associates for questioning. The agency's investigation aims to verify the findings of the Kaduna State House of Assembly and ensure accountability for any proven financial misconduct.
Kaduna State Attorney-General Dagogo Israel Iboroma (SAN) criticized the judgment, asserting that the court lacked jurisdiction and dismissed the allegations as misleading. However, local government officials like Emohua Chairman Dr. Chidi Lloyd supported the court's findings, emphasizing the need for a thorough legal process to address the alleged corruption.
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