CNPP demands probe into alleged diversion of Kaduna LG funds

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), Kaduna State Chapter has called on the Kaduna State House of Assembly to set up an independent investigative committee to probe allegations of diversion of local government funds leveled against Governor Uba Sani by his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai.

El-Rufai recently accused Governor Uba Sani of allegedly diverting local government funds to acquire properties in the Seychelles, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, sparking public concerns over transparency and accountability in governance.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, CNPP’s Publicity Secretary, Ambassador Sanin Yaya, stressed that local government funds are constitutionally protected for grassroots development, and any misappropriation constitutes a breach of public trust.

He urged the Kaduna State House of Assembly to launch an immediate, impartial, and transparent probe into the allegations.

“All relevant stakeholders, including former Governor El-Rufai, Governor Uba Sani, the Commissioner for Local Government, and Local Government Chairmen, should be summoned for questioning,”; Yaya stated.

According to CNPP, available data indicates that no local government receives allocations close to ₦50 million, as alleged. The group further pointed out that projects worth over ₦12 billion in Zone 2 remain unaccounted for, while questioning disproportionate allocation removals across Zones 1, 2, and 3, allegedly under the guise of project execution.

“The CNPP possesses documented evidence to substantiate these claims and urges the state government to address these irregularities with urgency,”; Yaya added.

While demanding a thorough probe, CNPP condemned El-Rufai over his remarks referring to Kaduna State House of Assembly members as “illiterates”;, arguing that such statements undermine democratic institutions.

“While CNPP supports robust public discourse, we reject the use of derogatory language aimed at ridiculing elected lawmakers. Describing them as ‘illiterates’ is disrespectful and erodes public confidence in democracy,”; the statement read.

The group called on El-Rufai to retract his statement and apologize to both the Assembly and the people of Kaduna State. It also urged the lawmakers to rise above provocation and demonstrate their commitment to justice by conducting a credible investigation.

CNPP further urged anti-graft agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to closely monitor the situation and intervene if evidence of corruption emerges.

As public pressure mounts, all eyes remain on the Kaduna State House of Assembly to determine whether a formal probe will commence into the allegations against Governor Uba Sani.