The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) on Saturday called on former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to submit himself to scrutiny over allegations of misappropriation of state funds during his tenure, insisting that accountability is non-negotiable for public officers.

The group also urged all leaders, past and present, to embrace responsibility to the public, noting that true leadership is characterized by humility and a willingness to be held accountable.

In a statement by its National Coordinator, Sama Musa, the group expressed concern that El-Rufai has allegedly resisted attempts to probe his administration, warning that such resistance undermines democratic governance and public accountability.

The group also called on El-Rufai to demonstrate leadership by cooperating with any legitimate inquiries into his administration.

According to the group, accountability is not merely a personal obligation but a societal necessity.

Musa said: “Public office is a sacred trust, and those who occupy such positions are duty-bound to uphold the highest standards of integrity. The citizens of Kaduna State, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, both during and after their time in office.

“It is disheartening to witness a former governor, who once championed the ideals of good governance, evade scrutiny when called upon to account for his actions. Such behaviour not only raises questions about his stewardship but also sets a dangerous precedent for future leaders.

“We assert that accountability is not an act of betrayal; rather, it is a fundamental duty of every leader. When a former governor or president is summoned to provide an account of his administration, taking offence at such a call is unjust and unbecoming of a public servant.

“Leaders must remember that they are answerable to the people they serve, and the expectation for accountability should not be viewed as an affront but as a necessary aspect of governance.

“During his tenure, Mr. El-Rufai made several controversial statements and decisions that have come under scrutiny. Notably, he boasted that his private security network was larger than the police force, raising significant concerns about the role of state resources and the implications for public safety.

“Furthermore, his admission regarding the payment of ransoms and supplies to bandits is particularly alarming. Such actions not only compromise the security of our communities but also send a troubling message about the state’s approach to law and order.”

Citing some of El-Rufai’s controversial remarks and decisions while in office, the group pointed to his claim that his private security network was larger than the police force, which they said raised concerns about the misuse of state resources.

The group also condemned his admission that ransoms and supplies were provided to bandits, describing the act as alarming and damaging to national security.

He added, “The consequences of his governance choices cannot be swept under the rug; they will demand accountability. We urge him to embrace the opportunity to clarify his actions and decisions, as failing to do so only perpetuate a culture of impunity that has plagued our political landscape for far too long.

“We call upon Mr. El-Rufai to demonstrate leadership by willingly participating in any legitimate inquiries regarding his administration. It is crucial for him to recognize that accountability is not merely a personal obligation but a societal necessity.

“By engaging with the scrutiny, he can help restore faith in our political institutions and contribute to a culture of transparency that is vital for the progress of Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole. We, the Northern Youth Frontiers, stand firm in our commitment to promoting accountability and transparency in governance.

“We implore all leaders, past and present, to embrace their responsibility to the public and to recognize that true leadership is characterized by humility and a willingness to be held accountable.

“We will continue to advocate for the rights of the youth and the people of Northern Nigeria, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. The time for accountability is now, and we call upon Mr. El-Rufai to rise to the occasion.” (The Guardian)