“El-Rufai Must Be Investigated for Crimes Against Southern Kaduna” – Regional Leaders Demand Judicial Probe of Former Governor

The Southern Kaduna Leadership Council has called on the federal government to initiate a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, over alleged systemic abuses and maladministration during his tenure.

At a press conference held in Kaduna on Wednesday, Council leaders accused El-Rufai of deliberately marginalizing Southern Kaduna communities. They alleged that his administration abused power to deprive the region of its rights, restructure its traditional institutions, and manipulate insecurity to displace indigenous populations.

The Council condemned the 2021 Kaduna State Traditional Institution Law, introduced under El-Rufai’s government, which they say reclassified and demoted several traditional rulers in the region. According to them, this law weakened local authority structures and created fear among traditional leaders. They urged current Governor Uba Sani to repeal the legislation and restore the status quo of 2015.

Timothy Gandu, Secretary of the Council, speaking alongside other regional leaders, claimed that El-Rufai used state resources to pay individuals linked to violent activities under the pretext of maintaining peace. Gandu also cited a statement by the former governor predicting the region’s political irrelevance within 20 years, describing it as a reflection of his broader policies.

The Council called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct security and judicial agencies to investigate El-Rufai’s conduct in office. They referenced a Federal High Court ruling that found the former governor guilty of gross abuse of office and violations of constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, religion, and thought. They also demanded a lifetime political ban on El-Rufai if found guilty of crimes against humanity.

In their statement, the leaders expressed appreciation for efforts by the current Kaduna State government under Governor Uba Sani, acknowledging recent inclusive policies and federal initiatives such as the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Science in Kachia and the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan. They also commended President Tinubu for fostering inclusive governance, which they say is beginning to positively impact the region.

The Council urged the Kaduna State government to continue reviewing and reversing non-inclusive policies from the previous administration, ensuring that governance reflects the state’s diverse population.