The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has challenged former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai to submit himself for scrutiny over allegations of misappropriation of state funds during his tenure in office as a proof of his accountability to the people he served.
The NYF which made the call in a statement on Sunday, also called on all leaders, past and present, to embrace responsibility to the public with the admonition that true leadership is characterised by humility and a willingness to be held accountable.
In the statement signed by its National Coordinator, Sama Musa, the NYF expressed concerns that attempts by authorities to get El-Rufai to present himself for a probe of his eight year administration as Kaduna governor has met with resistance, warning that such acts undermine democratic governance and public accountability.
Musa also called on El-Rufai to demonstrate leadership by cooperating with any legitimate inquiries into his administration because accountability is not merely a personal obligation but a societal necessity.
“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,” the NYF said.
“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.
“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 perpetuates 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 recognise 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 recognise that true leadership is characterised 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 NYF statement said.
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