In a recent development, the Kaduna State House of Assembly has formally requested the Ministry of Finance to provide a comprehensive breakdown of financial transactions carried out during the tenure of former governor Nasir El-Rufai from 2015 to 2023.
This request comes on the heels of Governor Uba Sani’s public statement a few weeks ago, expressing concerns over the challenges faced in meeting salary obligations due to loans procured by the previous administration.
In response to the financial difficulties inherited from the previous government, Governor Sani reaffirmed the commitment to advancing the state towards sustainable development despite the substantial debts.
Following Governor Sani’s remarks, the Kaduna State House of Assembly pledged to delve into the financial records of El-Rufai’s administration. This decision sparked varied reactions, including criticisms from El-Rufai’s son, Bashir, who accused the current governor of neglecting his responsibilities.
The Assembly, through a letter bearing reference number LEG/S. 382/VOL. II/615 signed by the Clerk of the Assembly, Sakinatu Idris, formally requested the Ministry of Finance to submit a memorandum and relevant documents detailing financial transactions from 2015 to May 2023.
The letter directed the ministry to provide information to an investigative committee tasked with examining all financial dealings, loans, and contract executions during El-Rufai’s tenure.
Specifically, the committee requested documents such as details of loans approved by the Assembly, bank accounts associated with the loans, Executive Council meeting minutes, contractor payments, salary reports, and various financial records spanning the specified period.
The ministry was given a deadline to submit thirty copies of the requested documents to the legislative clerk’s office by April 25, 2024, at 10:00 am.