The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kaduna State chapter, has refuted allegations by a former Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, regarding the diversion of local government funds.
At a news conference on Tuesday – yesterday, March 18 – in Kaduna, ALGON spokesperson, Alh. Muhammad Shehu, rejected the claims, vouching for Gov. Uba Sani’s administration’s promotion of transparency, accountability in governance and financial autonomy of the local councils.
Describing el-Rufai’s allegations as false, misleading and aimed at undermining the credibility of Governor Sani’s people-centred and inclusive governance, Shehu noted that the accusations were intended to misinform the public, provoke discontent and discredit the current administration’s development efforts.
El-Rufai had alleged that the Governor Sani misappropriated local government funds to acquire properties in Seychelles, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
But refuting el-Rufai’s claim, apparently based on his own inside knowledge of the workings of the Sani government, Shehu stressed: “The Uba Sani administration (that I know) strictly follows due process and the rule of law. It supports local government initiatives and does not interfere with their finances.”
According to the ALGON leader, local governments in Kaduna now receive significantly higher monthly allocations compared to what was disbursed during el-Rufai’s tenure.
“Many of us served under El-Rufai. Under Sani, our allocations have doubled. We now operate without fear or intimidation,” Shehu declared, accusing el-Rufai of pursuing divisive policies, especially the ‘Riot Damage Deductions’ by which he allegedly targeted Southern Kaduna, fuelling ethnic tensions.
Shehu praised the Sani-led administration for reversing such policies, promoting unity and fostering inclusivity across Kaduna State.
Citing rural development, Shehu highlighted the Rural Transformation Programme, which has improved agriculture, created jobs, boosted rural economies, and enhanced local security.
He urged the public to dismiss el-Rufai’s claims, calling them baseless and unsupported by any credible evidence.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Shehu assured that local government chairmen are focused on development, with no complaints about the state government’s handling of funds.
