Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has called for a comprehensive investigation into the administration of ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging widespread financial impropriety and abuse of office during his eight-year tenure.
Addressing journalists in Kaduna on Saturday, Sani urged security and anti-corruption agencies to probe what he described as the mismanagement of public funds amounting to hundreds of billions of naira between 2015 and 2023.
He specifically called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to act on the indictment by the Kaduna State House of Assembly and ensure full accountability.
Allegations of Hardship, Rights Violations
Sani alleged that Kaduna State experienced heightened hardship, insecurity, demolitions and human rights violations during El-Rufai’s administration, describing the period as one of the most challenging in the state’s history.
He also questioned the former governor’s democratic record, citing the reported arrest and detention of journalists, activists, clerics and community leaders.
The former lawmaker further urged security agencies to intensify investigations into the disappearance of political activist Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who has been missing since 2019.
Political Firestorm After TV Interview
Sani’s comments followed recent remarks by El-Rufai during an interview on Arise TV, where the former governor criticised the current administration.
Describing El-Rufai’s position as hypocritical, Sani argued that the former governor had actively campaigned for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 elections and should not now discredit the same government.
“You cannot promote a candidate as the best option yesterday and turn around today to attack the same administration,” Sani said.
He also claimed El-Rufai had lost political relevance before leaving office, referencing what he termed the ruling party’s poor electoral performance in parts of Kaduna State.
Backing Tinubu, Uba Sani Ahead of 2027
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Sani declared support for President Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, commending what he described as a reduction in kidnappings under the current administration.
While affirming that Nigerians are free to choose credible leaders, he cautioned against what he called a “charade of politicians” who contributed to Nigeria’s challenges since 1999 but now present themselves as alternatives.
Sani urged political actors to respect zoning and power rotation principles, stressing that competence, integrity and national cohesion must guide leadership choices as the country moves toward the next electoral cycle.