Group Backs Prosecution Of El-Rufai Over Alleged ICPC Findings

The Northern Youth Alliance for Security (NYAS) has called for the prosecution of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following alleged revelations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The group also cited transfers amounting to N428,122,180.18 to undisclosed accounts, which it said require thorough scrutiny.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Saminu Dantala, the group expressed concern over reports that security-sensitive equipment allegedly capable of intercepting communications, alongside classified documents, were recovered from El-Rufai’s Abuja residence.

According to the group, the development raises serious concerns about national security, abuse of office, and public trust in democratic institutions.

Dantala said: “This alarming discovery raises profound concerns about the potential misuse of power and the erosion of trust in our governance structures.

The implications of such actions are not only detrimental to the security of our nation but also undermine the very foundations of democracy and rule of law.

“Furthermore, it has come to light that Mr. El-Rufai is under scrutiny for multiple corruption allegations, including the troubling disappearance of €1.4 million, along with 180 suspicious payments totaling N2,158,799,199 linked to the Consolidated Revenue Account of Kaduna State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) account.

“Additionally, transfers amounting to N428,122,180.18 to undisclosed accounts demand immediate investigation and accountability. As a coalition of young Nigerians committed to the ideals of transparency and integrity, we cannot remain silent in the face of such egregious violations.

“The presence of Mr. El-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza, and son, Mohammed, during the recovery of these items only adds a layer of complexity to an already troubling situation. It raises questions about the complicity of those closest to him and the potential normalization of corrupt practices within our political culture.”

The group also referenced reports that the ICPC secured a detention order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, allowing investigators to hold the former governor for 14 days pending investigation.

NYAS urged the judiciary and anti-graft agencies to ensure due process and impartial investigation, stressing that no individual should be above the law regardless of political status.

NYAS called for Immediate prosecution of the former governor if investigations establish wrongdoing; Comprehensive investigation into all financial and security-related allegations; Strict enforcement of cybercrime laws to deter future abuses; and Enhanced public accountability mechanisms for elected and appointed officials.

He added, “We call upon the ICPC and relevant authorities to expedite the prosecution of Nasir El-Rufai and ensure that he is held accountable for his actions. The integrity of our institutions hinges on the ability to confront corruption decisively.

“We urge the ICPC to conduct a thorough investigation into all allegations against Mr. El-Rufai, including the whereabouts of the missing €1.4 million and the suspicious payments linked to Kaduna State’s finances. Transparency in this process is essential to restore public confidence.

“As Nigeria grapples with increasing digital threats, we advocate for the strict enforcement of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. The penalties outlined in this legislation must be applied to all offenders, regardless of their political connections.

“We insist on the establishment of mechanisms that ensure public officials are held accountable for their actions. The culture of impunity must be dismantled to foster a new era of governance characterised by integrity and service to the people.

“The Northern Youth Alliance for Security remains steadfast in our commitment to advocating for justice and transparency. We believe that the prosecution of Nasir El-Rufai is not merely a matter of individual accountability but a critical step towards restoring faith in our democratic institutions.

“The youth of this nation are determined to see a future where leadership is synonymous with integrity and where the rule of law prevails above all else.

“We call upon all Nigerians to join us in this fight against corruption and to demand the accountability that our nation deserves. Together, we can build a Nigeria that is free from the shackles of corruption and where the rights and security of every citizen are upheld.”