The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II says former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, is facing stringent bail conditions before being released from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
El-Rufai has been in the custody of the anti-graft agency since February 19 over alleged financial impropriety during his tenure as governor of Kaduna between 2015 and 2023.
On April 13, the ICPC arraigned the former governor at the Kaduna high court on an amended nine-count charge bordering on alleged corruption and abuse of office.
Addressing journalists after attending an event, Sanusi claimed that authorities had imposed difficult conditions for the former governor’s release.
“For example, look at what is happening with my brother, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai. He is currently in custody, and the requirements for his release are incredibly difficult.
“They stated that an emir and a senior government worker must sign his bail,” Sanusi said.
The traditional ruler’s remarks came as the El-Rufai Support Group Association (ERSGA) announced the engagement of Vanguard Africa, a Washington DC-based advocacy organisation, to lead an international campaign on the former governor’s ongoing prosecution.
ERSGA’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Mohammed Salihu said the group would work with the US-based firm to engage policymakers, democracy advocates and international stakeholders on developments surrounding the case.
The former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) went on to express concern over the erosion of social and cultural standing of the northern region.
He pointed out that poverty has long existed in the region, but northerners have historically maintained their dignity and placed their trust in God despite economic hardship.
“Regarding the north, we all know that poverty has been a long-standing issue here. Yet, despite their poverty, northern people value and respect themselves, leaving everything in the hands of Almighty God.
“What is troubling the north is not just a lack of money, but the erosion of our culture, the testing of our patience, and the continuous attempt to copy other cultures across this country,” Sanusi said.
He maintained that northerners no longer command the level of acceptance and influence they once enjoyed in national politics.
“Previously, a northerner was widely accepted to lead the entire nation, but today, northerners are no longer viewed differently from anyone else,” the Emir added.
