457
By Oscar Okhifo
A few hours after a pro-Nasir El-Rufai crowd that had gathered around the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, was dispersed with teargas, a rival group of anti-El-Rufai protesters emerged at the same location, demanding a thorough investigation and prosecution of the former Kaduna State governor.
Members of the Mega National Movement for Good Governance (MNMGG) arrived in large numbers, waving placards reading: “No Sacred Cows,” “Justice Must Prevail,” and “They Must Be Held Accountable!”
Spokesperson Muhammad Abdullahi fired a warning shot, insisting the matter should not be politicized.
“This is about accountability, not persecution. Let the courts decide,” he declared, urging the former governor to submit to due process.
The protesters cited the 2024 report of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which allegedly highlighted irregularities in contracts and the state’s debt profile.
They called on anti-graft agencies to act “without fear or favour,” referencing constitutional backing for their demands.
Responding on behalf of EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the Commission’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, assured the crowd that due process would be strictly followed.
He reiterated that the Commission would investigate the allegations thoroughly, emphasizing that justice and transparency remained the agency’s top priorities.
As the demonstration unfolded, tensions briefly rose, but no violence was reported.
The protest ended with a promise from the MNMGG to continue monitoring the case closely, signaling that they would return if they perceived any attempt to obstruct justice.
The EFCC has faced intense public scrutiny in recent days following allegations that El-Rufai intercepted communications involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, along with other claims of corruption.
The Commission emphasized that all investigations would proceed strictly within the framework of Nigerian law, ensuring transparency and adherence to due process.