The Northern Youth Alliance for Security (NYAS) has urged authorities to prosecute former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following alleged findings by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The group pointed to transfers totalling N428,122,180.18 into accounts it described as undisclosed, saying the transactions warrant comprehensive investigation.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Saminu Dantala, NYAS said it was troubled by reports that security-sensitive devices allegedly capable of intercepting communications, along with classified documents, were recovered from the former governor’s residence in Abuja.
The alliance maintained that the reports raise grave issues touching on national security, potential abuse of office and confidence in democratic institutions.
Dantala said: “This alarming discovery raises profound concerns about the potential misuse of power and the erosion of trust in our governance structures. The implications of such actions are not only detrimental to the security of our nation but also undermine the very foundations of democracy and rule of law.”
The group further called on the anti-corruption agency to expand its probe to cover other corruption allegations levelled against the former governor, including claims of questionable payments linked to the Consolidated Revenue Account of Kaduna State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“ As a coalition of young Nigerians committed to the ideals of transparency and integrity, we cannot remain silent in the face of such egregious violations,” it said.
NYAS also cited reports indicating that the ICPC obtained a detention order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, authorising investigators to detain the former governor for 14 days pending the conclusion of investigations.
The group appealed to the judiciary and anti-graft agencies to uphold due process and ensure impartiality, emphasising that political standing should not shield anyone from accountability.
Among its demands, NYAS called for immediate prosecution should investigations confirm any wrongdoing; a far-reaching probe into all financial and security-related claims; strict application of cybercrime laws to prevent similar incidents; and stronger public accountability systems for elected and appointed officials.
He added, “We call upon the ICPC and relevant authorities to expedite the prosecution of Nasir El-Rufai and ensure that he is held accountable for his actions. The integrity of our institutions hinges on the ability to confront corruption decisively.
“We urge the ICPC to conduct a thorough investigation into all allegations against Mr. El-Rufai…..
“As Nigeria grapples with increasing digital threats, we advocate for the strict enforcement of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. The penalties outlined in this legislation must be applied to all offenders, regardless of their political connections.
“We insist on the establishment of mechanisms that ensure public officials are held accountable for their actions. The culture of impunity must be dismantled to foster a new era of governance characterized by integrity and service to the people.
“The Northern Youth Alliance for Security remains steadfast in our commitment to advocating for justice and transparency. We believe that the prosecution of Nasir El-Rufai is not merely a matter of individual accountability but a critical step towards restoring faith in our democratic institutions.
“The youth of this nation are determined to see a future where leadership is synonymous with integrity and where the rule of law prevails above all else.
“We call upon all Nigerians to join us in this fight against corruption and to demand the accountability that our nation deserves. Together, we can build a Nigeria that is free from the shackles of corruption and where the rights and security of every citizen are upheld.”
