Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was detained overnight at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja after hours of interrogation on Monday concerning an alleged ₦432 billion corruption scandal from his 2015–2023 administration.
El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), arrived voluntarily at the EFCC's Jabi office around 10–11 a.m. in response to an invitation.
He underwent prolonged questioning before being placed in custody, with sources indicating he would remain there as the probe advanced.
The investigation draws from a 2024 Kaduna State House of Assembly ad hoc committee report accusing his government of misappropriating loans, breaching due process in contract awards, and inflating state debt.
The panel alleged misuse of approximately ₦423–432 billion, including diversions from projects like a light rail initiative, and recommended prosecuting El-Rufai and former aides for abuse of office, contract violations, and money laundering.
The matter was referred to the EFCC and ICPC, with the probe reportedly ongoing for about a year.EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed El-Rufai's presence but offered no further details on the active investigation.
This development intensifies legal scrutiny on the ex-governor. Separately, the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a three-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting communications, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu's phone potentially carrying up to two years' imprisonment upon conviction.
El-Rufai has denied all allegations, calling them politically motivated, particularly given his recent criticisms of the Federal Government and security agencies.
His team described the EFCC session as professional and productive.
The case has sparked protests outside the EFCC headquarters, with supporters clashing and others demanding full accountability, underscoring Nigeria's ongoing debates on anti-corruption enforcement and political accountability.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com