Hundreds of protesters on Thursday flooded major streets in Kaduna metropolis in support of the ongoing investigation of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).
The demonstrators, under the umbrella of the Nasiriya Movement, called for an open and transparent public trial of El-Rufai and other officials allegedly involved in mismanaging state funds during his eight-year tenure.
Marching through key roads across the city, the protesters urged the anti-graft agencies to conduct a thorough and uncompromising investigation into the former administration. They alleged that more than ₦432 billion was misappropriated while El-Rufai was in office.
Speaking on behalf of the group, National President of the Nasiriya Movement, Alhaji Garkuwa Ibrahim Babuga, insisted that justice must be pursued without interference.
“We believe that more than ₦400 billion of taxpayers’ money was misappropriated under the previous administration. The former governor must not be set free until he refunds our money,” Babuga said.
He urged the EFCC and ICPC to determine the exact amount allegedly embezzled and ensure full recovery of public funds if wrongdoing is established.
Babuga also alleged that thousands of workers were disengaged during El-Rufai’s administration without payment of gratuities and other entitlements, leaving many in severe hardship.
“Several affected workers have since become bedridden, while others are struggling to secure accommodation due to the sudden loss of income and benefits,” he claimed.
The group vowed to sustain the protest until they are satisfied with the outcome of the probe, warning that they would mobilise to Abuja if necessary.
One of the female protest leaders, Mrs. Patience John, commended the anti-corruption agencies for initiating the investigation, describing it as a positive step toward accountability and transparency.
She further alleged that the former governor disregarded court orders during demolition exercises in Kaduna metropolis, worsening the plight of affected residents.
Protesters carried placards bearing messages such as “Thank you EFCC for probing El-Rufai,” “El-Rufai must refund our ₦432bn,” and “Uba Sani must continue to deliver Kaduna,” as they called on authorities to ensure due process and justice in the ongoing investigation.
