Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasiru Ahmad El-Rufai, has strongly denied accusations of corruption during his tenure, asserting his willingness to swear on the Holy Quran to affirm his innocence.
During an interview on Freedom Radio Kaduna, El-Rufai challenged both his predecessors and current leaders to do the same. “I didn’t enter politics to steal or enrich myself. I was content with what I had before becoming governor,” he stated.
El-Rufai highlighted that his administration has faced accusations without solid evidence, while his allies are being pursued by anti-corruption bodies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“I leave this matter to Allah’s judgment. I’ve prayed and will remain silent on the accusations,” the former governor said, noting that he has directed his legal team to pursue action against those defaming him.
These denials come amid allegations from the Kaduna State House of Assembly that El-Rufai misappropriated N423 billion in state funds.
Despite the accusations, El-Rufai reaffirmed his dedication to public service, even outside of political office. “You don’t need a government position to serve. We continue to work with like-minded individuals who genuinely want to serve the people, not just enrich themselves,” he remarked.
El-Rufai also disclosed plans to return to politics in 2027 after completing his studies. “There is no retirement in politics. By Allah’s will, we will return in 2027 and continue serving the people,” he said.
In June 2024, El-Rufai petitioned the court to dismiss the report of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which accused him of syphoning N423 billion during his administration. The court has adjourned the case to July 17 for further hearing.
The Assembly had set up a 13-man committee in April 2024 to investigate finances, loans, and contracts under El-Rufai’s tenure. The panel’s report implicated El-Rufai and some of his appointees, urging the current governor, Uba Sani, to refer the matter to security agencies.
Governor Uba Sani, who succeeded El-Rufai, revealed during a town hall meeting that the former governor left behind a significant debt profile. “We inherited a huge debt burden of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities, making it difficult to pay workers’ salaries,” Sani said. Despite this, he expressed his determination to lead Kaduna State toward sustainable development.
