On Tuesday, the Kaduna State House of Assembly established a 13-member committee to investigate the financial dealings, loans, grants, and project implementations from 2015-2023 during the tenure of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The House has tasked the committee with inviting notable figures who served during that period, including contractors, to account for the allocation and expenditure of loans and grants.
Honourable Mugu Yusuf, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts who is also the Deputy Minority Whip, initiated the motion, stating that the public deserves clarity on the events of that period. He cited the governor’s remarks on the state’s financial situation as a catalyst for the motion.
Yusuf emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in government finances, especially in his capacity as a legislator representing the state. He noted the need to address misperceptions about the state’s financial standing.
Furthermore, he highlighted Kaduna’s debt profile, ranking second only to Lagos among the 36 states. He stressed the urgency of the committee’s work, stating that they have one month to submit their report to the House leadership.
Henry Marah Zachariah, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, reiterated that the House’s objective is not to accuse individuals of wrongdoing but to ascertain how the loans and grants from the previous administration were utilized. He emphasized that individuals who fail to comply with the committee’s invitation will be legally compelled to appear and provide explanations.
Zachariah emphasized the importance of document submission, stating that all invitees must bring relevant documents to support their testimonies before the committee.
(Blue Print)
