The Digest:
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai spent hours being grilled by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) detectives on Monday after honouring the agency's invitation over alleged N423 billion fraud during his eight-year tenure (2015-2023). El-Rufai arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja Monday morning, accompanied by supporters, while counter-protesters demanded his prosecution. The interrogation stems from a Kaduna State House of Assembly committee report recommending his probe over alleged money laundering and diversion of public funds. Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) filed charges against el-Rufai on Monday for allegedly bugging the phone of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. El-Rufai had claimed someone tapped Ribadu's phone and heard him ordering his arrest. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale assured protesters the commission would professionally address all issues.
Key Points:
- The interrogation marks a significant escalation in the investigation into el-Rufai's eight-year administration.
- It tests the former governor's legal strategy of framing the probe as political persecution.
- El-Rufai faces potential arraignment, while anti-graft agencies demonstrate investigative resolve.
- This signals the culmination of months of legislative recommendations and public pressure.
- The timing, with DSS charges also filed, intensifies legal jeopardy.
Sources: Daily Trust, EFCC, NAN
