The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has uncovered the alleged diversion of N1.37 billion from the N11 billion allocated for the Kaduna Light Rail Project during the administration of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, according to Sources.
Key Findings:
- The Kaduna State Government, under El-Rufai, reportedly signed a joint venture agreement with Indo Kaduna Mrts JV Nigeria Limited in October 2016.
- Despite the company not being registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) at the time, payments were approved in December 2016—months before its official registration in May 2017.
- Between December 2016 and January 2017, N11.1 billion was paid to Mrts JV Nigeria Limited, with N1.373 billion allegedly diverted to a private account traced by ICPC.
ICPC’s Legal Action:
ICPC has filed an ex parte application at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an interim forfeiture of the funds.
The agency also wants the court to issue a public notice in two national newspapers, allowing anyone with claims to the funds to come forward before a final forfeiture ruling.
ICPC Chairman Musa Aliyu argued that reclaiming the funds for public projects aligns with good governance and accountability.
Investigation Background:
The probe was triggered by a petition from M. Yahaya, a lawyer from NUS’ AB Chambers, Abuja, submitted to ICPC on July 1, 2024. The petition alleged criminal misappropriation of Kaduna State funds by officials of the El-Rufai administration.
The ICPC investigation highlights major financial irregularities in the Kaduna Light Rail Project, raising concerns over public funds mismanagement under the former governor’s tenure.
