The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has publicly urged former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to subject himself to a thorough investigation concerning accusations of misusing state funds during his administration, as a demonstration of his commitment to transparency and responsibility to the citizens he governed.
In a statement released on Sunday, the NYF emphasized the importance of all leaders, both former and current, embracing accountability, highlighting that genuine leadership is defined by humility and readiness to answer to the public.
Signed by the National Coordinator, Sama Musa, the statement voiced apprehension over the resistance encountered by authorities attempting to summon El-Rufai for an inquiry into his eight-year tenure as governor. The NYF warned that such avoidance undermines democratic principles and the essential practice of public accountability.
Musa further appealed to El-Rufai to set an example of responsible leadership by cooperating fully with any authorized investigations into his governance, stressing that accountability transcends personal duty and is a societal imperative.
“Holding public office is a profound responsibility, requiring those in such positions to maintain the utmost integrity. The people of Kaduna State, along with all Nigerians, deserve openness and accountability from their leaders, both during their time in office and afterward,” the NYF stated.
“It is disappointing to see a former governor, who once advocated for good governance, avoid scrutiny when called upon to explain his actions. This behavior not only casts doubt on his leadership but also sets a harmful example for future officeholders.”
“We maintain that accountability is not a betrayal but a core obligation of every leader. When a former governor or president is asked to account for their administration, reacting with hostility is inappropriate and unbecoming of a public official.”
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“Leaders must always remember their duty to the people they serve, and the demand for accountability should be embraced as an essential element of governance, not as an insult.”
“During his time in office, Mr. El-Rufai made several contentious remarks and decisions that have drawn public concern. For instance, he claimed that his private security apparatus outnumbered the official police force, raising serious questions about the use of state resources and the impact on public safety.”
“Moreover, his acknowledgment of paying ransoms and providing supplies to bandits is deeply troubling. Such actions jeopardize community security and send a worrying signal about the state’s stance on law enforcement.”
“The repercussions of his administrative choices cannot be ignored; they necessitate accountability. We encourage him to seize the chance to explain his decisions, as evading this responsibility only fuels a culture of impunity that has long afflicted our political system.”
“We call on Mr. El-Rufai to exemplify true leadership by willingly engaging with any legitimate probes into his governance. It is vital for him to understand that accountability is not just a personal matter but a collective necessity.”
“By cooperating with such investigations, he can help rebuild trust in our political institutions and foster a culture of transparency crucial for the advancement of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large. The Northern Youth Frontiers remain steadfast in advocating for accountability and openness in governance.”
“We urge all leaders, past and present, to accept their public responsibilities and recognize that authentic leadership involves humility and a readiness to be held accountable.”
“Our commitment to championing the rights of the youth and people of Northern Nigeria remains unwavering, ensuring their voices are amplified and their concerns addressed. The moment for accountability is upon us, and we call on Mr. El-Rufai to meet this challenge head-on,” the NYF concluded.
