Coalitions operating under the banners of Southern Kaduna Renaissance and Southern Kaduna Progressive Minds have expressed strong support for the ongoing investigation of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The groups maintained that El-Rufai is not above the law and should be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.
Speaking at a press conference in Kafanchan on Friday, the leader of Southern Kaduna Renaissance, Gideon Mutum, called for his full prosecution should any wrongdoing be established.
He also argued that the alleged interception of the National Security Adviser’s communications poses a serious national security risk, stressing the need for a comprehensive probe into El-Rufai’s recent claims made on national television.
Similarly, leaders of Southern Kaduna Progressive Minds, led by Chairman Jehu Dogo and Secretary Najib Mohammed, who spearheaded an anti-El-Rufai protest, declared that the Southern Kaduna region does not stand with the former governor.
The group described the recent pro-El-Rufai protest by some individuals in Southern Kaduna as “misguided and politically driven,” insisting that it does not represent the views or collective position of the people of the region.
“It is unreasonable to stage a protest in Southern Kaduna over investigations being conducted by federal institutions carrying out their constitutional responsibilities,” the group said.
“No individual, regardless of status or former office, is above the law. Accountability and due process must be allowed to run their full course,” the group maintained.
While affirming that peaceful protest remains a constitutional right, the coalition cautioned against what it described as attempts to drag Southern Kaduna into “externally driven political schemes.”
The coalition also commended the administration of Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for promoting inclusive governance and equitable development across the state, particularly in Southern Kaduna.