News
Anti-Corruption Group Petitions EFCC, Demands Arrest, Prosecution of Ganduje
A coalition of hundreds of anti-corruption groups has formally petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), seeking the immediate arrest and prosecution of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State and current national chairman of the All Progressives Congress.
The petition, dated November 4, 2024, and acknowledged by the EFCC on November 7, 2024, outlines numerous allegations of bribery and misappropriation against Ganduje.
Ganduje’s tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023 has been marred by accusations of corruption, including a recent fraud charge filed by the Kano State government.
This charge alleges that he conspired to divert over ₦57.43 billion meant for the 44 local government areas of Kano State, using the funds to acquire luxurious properties locally and internationally.
His administration has also been plagued by accusations of cronyism, nepotism, and embezzlement.
Specific allegations against Ganduje include orchestrating a scheme to syphon funds through various accounts, converting them into cash and foreign currencies between 2020 and 2023, and multiple counts of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust, and misappropriation.
A total of 143 witnesses, including local government cashiers, foreign currency exchange operators, and former bank employees, are expected to provide crucial testimony.
In the petition co-signed by Dr. Johnson Nebechi and
Comrade Umar Ideresu, the convener and spokesperson respectively, the National Anti-Corruption Alliance (NACA) said these allegations warrant immediate investigation and action.
“Ganduje’s history of corruption is well-documented. In 2018, Daily Nigerian published a video allegedly showing him receiving $5 million as bribe from contractors,” the petition said.
“In 2023, the Kano state Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) invited Ganduje for questioning, but he did not honor the invitation. A Kano State High Court also fixed April 17, 2024, for Ganduje’s arraignment on eight counts involving an alleged $413,000 bribe and misappropriation of N1.38 billion.
“NACA demands that the EFCC take swift action, arresting and prosecuting Ganduje, investigating the alleged diversion of ₦57.43 billion, and recovering the misappropriated funds.
“We urge the EFCC to uphold its mandate to combat corruption and protect public interests, ensuring transparency, accountability, and justice for the Nigerian people.
“The Nigerian people deserve transparency, accountability, and justice. We expect the EFCC to demonstrate its commitment to eradicating corruption by pursuing this case with diligence and vigor.”
Supporters of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Zamfara State have issued a stern warning to Aminu Sani Jaji, the member of parliament representing Kaura/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency, accusing him of misleading the public and betraying the party’s values.
The group has called on Jaji to cease associating himself with the APC, claiming his actions are a deliberate attempt to undermine the party and its leadership.
In a statement released on Sunday, Muhammad kabir Birnin Magaji, chairman of the APC supporters’ group, lambasted Jaji for what he described as “anti-party activities” that led to his suspension from the APC.
“We have repeatedly warned him to stop linking himself with the party, as his actions and utterances do not reflect the values of the APC,” kabir said.
“His continuous attempts to associate with us are deceptive and unacceptable.”
The supporters dismissed Jaji’s criticisms of Matawalle as baseless, asserting that the lawmaker owes much of his political career to the influence of Matawalle and former Governor Abdulaziz Yari.
Kabir highlighted a specific point of contention: Jaji’s apparent frustration over the distribution of seven trucks of rice donated by President Bola Tinubu during Ramadan, which Matawalle oversaw.
“The minister launched the distribution, and genuine APC members witnessed it being shared peacefully across the state,” he said.
“Why is Jaji so pained about this? He is not the only lawmaker in the party from Zamfara—there are senators and other representatives ahead of him.”
The chairman went further, noting that Matawalle has personally funded the distribution of over 50 trucks of rice,
distributed sum of one billion naira to the party’s stakeholders,too
and 100 cows to APC supporters in Zamfara during this Sallah celebrations.
“Why is Jaji concerned about this if he is not working for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)?” kabir questioned.
The APC supporters accused Jaji of aligning himself with PDP Governor Lawal Dare to destabilise the APC in Zamfara.
Kabir, said Jaji held meetings with PDP members during Ramadan, but there’s no evidence he distributed anything—not even to them,” kabir added.
Jaji’s conduct, the group argued, exposes him as a “two-faced and unprincipled figure” more interested in personal gain than party loyalty.
The group pointed to his ongoing antagonism towards Zamfara APC Chairman Tukur Danfulani and his alleged attempts to tarnish the reputations of Matawalle and Yari—two of the state’s most influential political heavyweights—as evidence of his disloyalty.“
It is absurd for Jaji to compare himself to Matawalle, whose leadership and political experience far surpass anything Jaji has achieved,” kabir said.
“His hypocrisy in parading himself as an APC member while secretly working with the opposition to sabotage us is disgraceful.”
The supporters urged Jaji to leave the APC and test his political relevance independently.
“Jaji’s politics is based on eye service. Whenever he comes to Abuja, he acts like a big man, but in Zamfara State, he is a nobody. If he thinks he is popular, he should join another party and test his popularity.
“The APC in Zamfara has no room for treachery and disloyalty—his charade must end now.
“If he truly believes he is significant, let him join another party and see if he can secure re-election without the support of Matawalle, Yari, and their loyal followers,” Kabir challenged.
As Muslims in Nigeria and around the world celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle,
urged Nigerians to continue supporting and praying for the military, noting that the Federal Government has made significant strides in combating insurgency and insecurity since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office.
has praised the resilience and dedication of the country’s Armed Forces and security agencies.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Ahmed Dan-Wudil, Dr Matawalle commended the tireless efforts of security personnel in safeguarding the nation.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting and praying for the military, noting that the Federal Government has made significant strides in combating insurgency and insecurity since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office.
While acknowledging that security challenges have not been entirely eradicated, the minister expressed confidence in the administration’s achievements, rating its performance in tackling insecurity at 9 out of 10. He assured Nigerians that, by the end of the year, the country would be “99 per cent free from insecurity, by God’s grace.”
“As we celebrate today, let us remember the families of our fallen heroes—those who have paid the supreme price in defending our sovereignty. Their sacrifices shall never be in vain,” he said. “We remain committed to ensuring the welfare of our troops and their loved ones, as well as strengthening our military capabilities to address security challenges effectively.”
Dr Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to national security, economic growth, and social development.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities through enhanced military operations, strategic partnerships, and intelligence-driven approaches.
However, he stressed that security is not the sole responsibility of the government and security forces, but a collective duty of all citizens.
He urged community leaders, religious scholars, and traditional rulers to work closely with security agencies by providing timely information and fostering peace.
“Eid-el-Fitr is a time of love, kindness, and reconciliation,” he said. “Let us use this period to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, forgive one another, and embrace the spirit of tolerance and understanding.”
The minister also called on Nigerians to extend a helping hand to the less privileged, including orphans and widows, emphasising that the true essence of Eid lies in sharing and caring for others.
“As we mark this special day, I pray that Almighty Allah accepts our fasting, prayers, and good deeds. May He grant us peace, prosperity, and continued progress as a nation. May He protect our gallant Armed Forces, bless their efforts, and reward them abundantly for their sacrifices.
“Eid Mubarak to you all! May this celebration bring renewed hope, joy, and divine blessings to our homes and communities.”
Politics
SSAP-SDGs Felicitates with Muslims on Eid-el-Fitr, Calls for Unity and Sustainable Development
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement released in Abuja in her behalf by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, the SSAP-SDGs emphasized the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time for gratitude, reflection, and unity. She highlighted the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, which define the season and align with the principles of sustainable development.
“Eid-el-Fitr is not only a period of celebration but also a moment for renewed commitment to building a more inclusive, just, and sustainable society where no one is left behind. The teachings of Ramadan inspire us to uphold peace, unity, and selflessness. These are values that are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” she stated.
Princess Orelope-Adefulire called on Nigerians to use the occasion to promote harmony, foster mutual understanding, and work together in addressing socio-economic challenges. She reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerating progress on key SDGs targets, including poverty eradication, access to quality education, gender equality, and economic empowerment.
“As we mark this joyous occasion, let us remember those in need and extend kindness to the less privileged. Together, through collective action and a shared vision, we can advance sustainable development and create a better future for all,” she added.
The SSAP-SDGs concluded by wishing all Muslims a peaceful and blessed Eid celebration, urging them to continue embodying the virtues of Ramadan in their daily lives.