The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has alleged that stringent bail conditions imposed on former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, are delaying his release from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.
Sanusi made the claim while speaking with journalists after an event, describing the bail requirements as difficult to meet.
According to him, the conditions attached to El-Rufai’s release have complicated efforts to secure his freedom.
“For example, look at what is happening with my brother, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. He is currently in custody, and the requirements for his release are incredibly difficult,” the Emir said.
“They stated that an emir and a senior government worker must sign his bail.”
His remarks came as the El-Rufai Support Group Association, ERSGA, announced the engagement of Vanguard Africa, a Washington DC-based advocacy organisation, to coordinate an international campaign concerning the former governor’s prosecution.
The group’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Mohammed Salihu, said the partnership would focus on engaging policymakers, democracy advocates and other international stakeholders on developments surrounding the case.
Sanusi also expressed concern over what he described as the gradual erosion of Northern Nigeria’s cultural values and political influence.
He said poverty had long existed in the region but noted that northern communities had traditionally maintained dignity and faith despite economic hardship.
“Regarding the north, we all know that poverty has been a long-standing issue here. Yet, despite their poverty, northern people value and respect themselves, leaving everything in the hands of Almighty God,” he said.
“What is troubling the north is not just a lack of money, but the erosion of our culture, the testing of our patience, and the continuous attempt to copy other cultures across this country.”
The monarch further lamented what he described as a decline in the region’s influence in national affairs.
“Previously, a northerner was widely accepted to lead the entire nation, but today, northerners are no longer viewed differently from anyone else,” he added.
El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 19 over allegations of financial impropriety during his tenure as Kaduna State governor between 2015 and 2023.
The anti-graft agency later arraigned him before a Kaduna State High Court on an amended nine-count charge bordering on alleged fraud and abuse of office.
