ABUJA, Nigeria – The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has arrested Nasara Bada, the former Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance and Accountant General, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct.
Bada was apprehended at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed Airport on Sunday, September 15, 2024, while attempting to leave the country, according to The Guardian.
The arrest is tied to concerns about potential corruption involving officials who served in the administration of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Bada’s movements had been under surveillance following intelligence reports suggesting she might try to flee the country to avoid investigation.
Bada’s arrest is part of a broader effort by the ICPC to scrutinize key figures from El-Rufai’s administration as allegations of financial mismanagement continue to surface.
El-Rufai is facing accusations of misappropriating over ₦400 billion in public funds during his tenure as governor.
The Kaduna State House of Assembly recently indicted the former governor for allegedly embezzling ₦423 billion from the state treasury.
Although the specific charges against Bada have not yet been publicly disclosed, sources suggest they relate to significant financial irregularities and misappropriation of public resources.
Her arrest has sparked widespread speculation that it may signal the beginning of a larger investigation into El-Rufai’s leadership and the handling of state funds during his time in office.
The ICPC is expected to release more details as the investigation unfolds.
Bada’s arrest, coupled with the ongoing scrutiny of El-Rufai, has intensified public interest in the potential extent of corruption within the former administration.
The anti-graft agency’s actions reflect Nigeria’s broader efforts to tackle corruption and hold public officials accountable for financial misdeeds.
As the investigation progresses, further revelations could emerge, potentially implicating more individuals from the previous government.
