The Kaduna State House of Assembly Adhoc Committee investigating the financial dealings under the immediate-past administration of Governor Nasir el-Rufai has summoned and quizzed former commissioners, permanent secretaries, some local government chairmen and other stakeholders.
Recall that the committee was set up by the House to scrutinise the state’s financial transactions, loans, contractual liabilities and other relevant matters from May 29, 2015 to May 29, 2023 when el-Rufai was governor of the state.
The chairman of the adhoc committee, Hon. Henry Magaji Danjuma, who spoke with journalists after a closed-door interactions with the former aides of el-Rufai on Monday night, said: “We deemed it necessary to have them interviewed so that we can get testimonies as to aid us get to an appropriate conclusion so that we can give a justified report of our committee.”
Hon. Danjuma’s declaration of inclusivity and openness in the session sets a positive example for democratic governance and highlights the importance of engaging a diverse range of voices in the legislative process.
By inviting participation from all relevant stakeholders, the House can work towards more informed and representative decision-making that serves the interests of the community as a whole.
“The entire session was open, anybody that was called was put on oath to know that we are serious and that whatever must be told must be honest,” he added.
The commitment to honesty and openness in the discussions between the committee and the stakeholders has been essential in promoting a sense of shared purpose and fostering a culture of collaboration and respect.
It is through this dedication to transparent communication that progress can be made towards meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
He expressed satisfaction with the candid and straightforward dialogue that took place among them and the individuals who testified.
This statement exemplifies a commitment to open communication and transparency, fostering an atmosphere of trust and mutual understanding.
Meanwhile, the speakers of the 8th and 9th sessions of the State Assembly, Hon. Aminu Shagali and Hon. Yusuf Zailani, respectively, had earlier been invited by the committee last week.
The former commissioners, who had appeared before the legislative committee included former Commissioner of Public Works and Infrastructure; former Commissioner of Education, Ja’afaru Ibrahim Sani; ex-Agric commissioner, Dr. Manzo Daniel Maigari; former commissioner/administrator, Zaria Metropolitan Authority, Balarabe Aliyu; former Commissioner for Budget and Planning, former Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, among others.
Engr. Mohammed Lawal Magaji’s appearance before the committee not only enriched the ongoing discussions but also highlighted the importance of effective leadership and management in ensuring the efficient delivery of infrastructure projects.
His contributions will undoubtedly inform future policy decisions and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of road networks and enhancing the overall development of Kaduna State.
The chairman of the committee emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and mentioned that additional stakeholders will be invited to participate in the panel’s proceedings.
This development underscores the commitment to thoroughness and transparency in the investigative process.
By inviting more stakeholders, the panel demonstrates a proactive approach to gathering diverse perspectives and information relevant to the matter at hand.