ICPC Arrests Ex-Kaduna Governor El-Rufai’s Finance Commissioner At Lagos Airport

Sustaining its onslaught, Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have apprehended former Kaduna Governor, El-Rufai’s Commissioner of Finance and Accountant General, Shizzer Joy Nasara Bada. Bada was reportedly arrested on Sunday at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos while attempting to travel abroad. The arrest comes amid growing suspicions that Bada might be fleeing the country due to ongoing corruption investigations linked to both herself and former Governor el-Rufai. ICPC officials had reportedly been tracking her movements after receiving intelligence that she might attempt to evade questioning. This move is part of a broader investigation targeting several high-ranking officials from el-Rufai’s administration. According to Saharareporters, sources suggest the scrutiny is centered on alleged financial mismanagement during their time in office, with multiple individuals under investigation for their roles. The Kaduna State House of Assembly recently indicted el-Rufai for allegedly embezzling ₦423 billion from the state treasury. Though the exact charges against Bada have not yet been disclosed, insiders believe they involve significant financial irregularities and misappropriation of public funds. Bada’s arrest has sparked widespread speculation, with many questioning whether this marks the start of a larger investigation into the former governor’s administration. The ICPC is expected to release further details as the investigation progresses, potentially revealing the extent of corruption within the previous leadership. Former Governor el-Rufai, meanwhile, has launched a legal challenge against the Kaduna State House of Assembly after it accused his administration of mismanaging ₦432 billion during his eight-year tenure. His attorney, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, filed a fundamental rights lawsuit in June, seeking to contest the claims made against him.

Tinubu mourns Labour Party lawmaker 

President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with the National Assembly and the Kaduna State Government over the passing of Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams, a lawmaker representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency of Kaduna State in the House of Representatives. The President also extended his condolences to the family and friends of the late lawmaker, urging them to find solace in the Almighty and in the legacy of the deceased. President Tinubu prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed lawmaker and strength to his family. Ekene died on Tuesday morning after battling an unknown illness. He was 39 years old.

Senate suspends legislative activities over Rep member Adams’ death

The Senate on Tuesday, July 16, suspended all legislative activities for the day to honour the late Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams, a member of the House of Representatives. Hon Adams who represented Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna state, reportedly died on Tuesday morning after a brief illness. He was the chairman of the House Committee on Sports. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the death of Adams during the commencement of plenary. The Senate observed a minute silence in honour of the late lawmaker and thereafter adjourned legislative activities for the day.