El-Rufai’s Former Aide Remains in Custody Amid Corruption Trial
The political tension between former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his successor, Uba Sani, has taken another dramatic turn. On Tuesday, the Kaduna State High Court denied bail to Bashir Saidu, a former Commissioner of Finance and Chief of Staff under El-Rufai’s administration, ordering his continued detention.
Saidu is facing a 10-count charge of corruption, including money laundering, embezzlement, and mismanagement of public funds. He has pleaded not guilty, firmly denying the accusations. However, the state government alleges that he caused financial losses by converting state funds from dollars to naira at unfavorable rates and mishandling proceeds from the sale of 11 government properties.
During the hearing, Saidu’s lawyers pushed for bail, arguing that he needed adequate time to prepare his defense. But the prosecution objected, citing legal provisions allowing them seven days to respond to the bail request. The judge sided with the prosecution, postponing the hearing to January 23 to allow for proper filings.
Bigger Battle in Court
This case is just one of many legal battles surrounding El-Rufai’s administration. Saidu, along with another former official, Jimi Lawal, is also under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The ICPC alleges that Saidu laundered ₦155 million, while Lawal is accused of laundering ₦64 million.
El-Rufai’s camp has dismissed these allegations as politically motivated. A close aide to the former governor, speaking anonymously, described the charges as part of a smear campaign by Governor Uba Sani to discredit the previous administration. The aide argued that the accusations, including those about currency exchange and government property sales, are baseless and lack substantial evidence.
A Brewing Political Rift
This legal tussle highlights the growing rift between El-Rufai and his successor, who were once political allies. Despite El-Rufai’s support in Sani’s 2023 election victory, tensions have escalated, with accusations flying from both sides.
Adding fuel to the fire, the Kaduna State House of Assembly recently accused El-Rufai of mismanaging over ₦423 billion during his tenure. The former governor, however, has called these allegations a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
It’s clear this corruption trial isn’t just about legal battles—it’s also a political chess game. While Saidu remains in custody, many observers believe these accusations are part of a broader campaign to weaken El-Rufai’s political influence.
