By Adesakin Adefemi
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed it is still investigating former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over corruption allegations and will charge him to court once the probe is complete.
El-Rufai, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, was detained by the EFCC from February 16 to 18 but was released on bail and later taken into custody by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
According to a source close to the EFCC, the commission is taking its time to ensure a thorough investigation, citing the complexity of the case. “We are not rushing this, we want to get it right,” the source said.
The former governor faces allegations of misappropriating loans and violating due process in contract awards during his tenure. The EFCC investigation is based on a 2024 report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which alleged that El-Rufai’s administration mismanaged loans and left the state with significant debt.
El-Rufai has denied any wrongdoing, describing the probe as politically motivated. “I have nothing to hide, I am a law-abiding citizen,” he said in a statement. His lawyers have also filed a suit against the ICPC over a raid on his Abuja residence, alleging that the anti-graft agency’s actions were unlawful.
The case has sparked controversy, with some alleging political persecution. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has warned that the federal government will be held accountable if anything happens to El-Rufai, citing concerns over his health and well-being.
The EFCC has not issued an official statement on the case, but sources indicate that investigations are ongoing. As the drama unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely, eager to see how the case will play out.
El-Rufai’s political career hangs in the balance as the investigation continues. The former governor has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, and his current troubles have sent shockwaves through the country’s political landscape.
The outcome of the case is far from certain, but one thing is clear: the Nigerian public will be watching closely to see how the case unfolds and what it means for the country’s anti-corruption efforts.
