The Kaduna State House of Assembly has taken a significant step by constituting a committee to investigate the utilization of the $350 million World Bank loan obtained during the tenure of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, along with other financial expenditures and abandoned projects initiated between 2015 and 2023.
During the plenary session on Tuesday, Speaker Yusuf Liman inaugurated the 13-man committee in response to a motion raised by Mugu Yusuf, the member representing the Kauru constituency. Yusuf highlighted concerns regarding negative comments and character assassinations directed at the state leadership, prompting the need for a thorough investigation.
Former Speaker Yusuf Zailani, under whose tenure the loan was obtained, clarified that the ninth assembly did not approve the loan for the executive. He recounted his efforts to prevent the loan’s approval due to existing debt burdens and expressed regret over the outcome.
Other lawmakers, including Henry Marah and Samuel Kambai, emphasized the legislative body’s constitutional role in approving loans. They underscored the need for accountability and urged the committee to summon past assembly speakers and members to elucidate on the loan acquisition and expenditure.
Speaker Liman instructed the ad-hoc committee to summon relevant stakeholders, including past assembly speakers, for comprehensive investigation. He assured transparency in the process and pledged to uphold truth and fairness.
The 13-man committee, chaired by Aminu Anti, comprises members tasked with scrutinizing the loan’s utilization and related financial matters.
Governor Uba Sani previously disclosed inheriting significant debt and contractual liabilities from the preceding administration, underscoring the financial challenges faced by the state.
The formation of this committee reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, aiming to address concerns and ensure prudent management of public resources in Kaduna State.