“ICPC Catches Ex-Kaduna Governor El-Rufai’s Finance Commissioner at Lagos Airport – What’s Next?”

Babatunji Wusu –

Operatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have apprehended Shizzer Joy Nasara Bada, the former Commissioner of Finance and Accountant General under ex-Governor Nasir el-Rufai’s administration in Kaduna State. Bada was detained on Sunday at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos while trying to board a flight abroad.

Her arrest comes amid suspicions that Bada may have been attempting to flee the country to avoid ongoing corruption investigations. ICPC officials had been closely monitoring her movements after receiving intelligence suggesting she might evade questioning.

This arrest is part of a broader investigation into several high-ranking officials from el-Rufai’s administration. According to Saharareporters, the probe focuses on alleged financial mismanagement during their tenure, with multiple individuals under scrutiny for their roles in these activities.

Recently, the Kaduna State House of Assembly indicted el-Rufai, accusing him of embezzling ₦423 billion from the state treasury. Although the specific charges against Bada have not been officially disclosed, insiders speculate they involve significant financial irregularities and the misappropriation of public funds.

Bada’s detention has fueled speculation about whether it signals the beginning of a more extensive investigation into the previous administration. The ICPC is expected to provide further details as the investigation unfolds, potentially shedding light on the extent of corruption within el-Rufai’s government.

In response to these developments, former Governor el-Rufai has filed a legal challenge against the Kaduna State House of Assembly. His attorney, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, initiated a fundamental rights lawsuit in June, contesting the allegations of mismanaging ₦432 billion during his eight-year tenure.