Adeyanju calls on DSS, EFCC to Probe El-Rufai over corruption and insecurity allegations

Civil rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations of corruption and the handling of insecurity during his tenure.

In a statement released on Thursday, Adeyanju emphasized that the anti-corruption and intelligence agencies must conduct the probe impartially and independently, stressing that accountability applies to all public officials, past and present.

He described claims of political persecution reportedly made by El-Rufai as “strange,” noting that his administration was often criticized for suppressing dissenting voices. According to Adeyanju, several critics including activists, religious leaders, and political commentators—were allegedly detained, harassed, or intimidated during El-Rufai’s time in office.

Adeyanju further called on the DSS to examine contentious security policies linked to El-Rufai’s administration, including allegations that financial inducements were provided to violent groups, describing such claims as serious national security concerns that warrant thorough investigation.

He stated: “I call on the EFCC and DSS to immediately investigate former Governor Nasir El-Rufai over allegations of corruption and his management of insecurity while in office. No one is above the law.

“If there are questions of financial misconduct or abuse of office, he must provide a full account, and the relevant agencies must not yield to intimidation.
“It is strange to hear claims of political persecution from a man whose government was repeatedly accused of silencing critics.
“Several individuals who spoke against his administration including activists, religious leaders, and commentators were reportedly arrested, harassed, or intimidated. The unresolved disappearance of a prominent critic abducted in front of his family remains a painful reminder of that period.
“The DSS should also investigate reports that his government engaged in controversial security arrangements, including alleged payments to violent actors.”