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Ex-Chief of Staff to El-Rufai detained over alleged fraud

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Ex chief of staff to Governor El Rufai, Bashir Saidu

The former Chief of Staff to Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, Bashir Saidu, has been detained in custody over allegations of fraud involving significant sums of money. Saidu was arraigned before a Kaduna State High Court earlier this week on charges of financial misconduct and misappropriation of public funds during his tenure in office.

The former aide, who served as the Chief of Staff to Governor El-Rufai from 2019 to 2023, is accused of diverting state funds meant for key infrastructural projects and public service delivery to personal accounts. The allegations, which were brought to light by an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC), have raised serious concerns regarding financial governance and transparency within the state.

According to the EFCC, Saidu’s actions led to the mismanagement of millions of naira, funds that were meant to improve key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. Sources within the commission revealed that the former Chief of Staff allegedly used his position to influence contracts and funnel money into his personal business ventures. The charges against him include embezzlement, money laundering, and bribery.

The court, after hearing the charges, ordered Saidu to be remanded in custody while the investigation continues. His legal team has expressed intentions to seek bail, arguing that the charges are politically motivated. However, the court has yet to rule on the bail application.

Governor El-Rufai, who has been an advocate for transparency and anti-corruption measures in his administration, has yet to publicly comment on the case. However, his office has issued a statement affirming their commitment to a thorough investigation and the pursuit of justice yet In a surprising move, El-Rufai has visited Saidu in prison on Thursday, 2 January accompanied by three of his former commissioners according to reports. However, the former governor declined to comment on the matter. This visit has sparked speculation about El-Rufai’s stance on the allegations against his former aide.

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As the case unfolds, many are watching with keen interest to see how it will impact the political landscape of Kaduna State. To some, the remand of Saidu in prison has already sent a strong message that no one is above the law, and that allegations of corruption will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted but to others Operation Fushin Kada, which was set up to combat banditry and criminal elements, is now being used to harass political opponents.


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