The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested Mohammed Bashir Sa’idu, a former commissioner in the state, over allegations of financial misappropriation and money laundering.
Sa’idu, who served as commissioner of local government affairs, chief of staff, and commissioner of finance during the administration of Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor, was detained following a petition accusing him of diverting public funds.
According to sources, Sa’idu is alleged to have laundered N3.9 billion by selling $45 million belonging to the Kaduna State Government at a market rate of N410 per dollar in 2021, instead of the prevailing rate of N498 per dollar. The transaction reportedly resulted in a shortfall of N3.9 billion.
Additionally, Sa’idu, who chaired the committee for the sale of government properties, has been accused of failing to account for the proceeds from the sale of properties located at Marafa Estate. Another allegation involves the misappropriation of N244 million.
The former commissioner is currently in detention as the police intensify investigations into the allegations. He is also under scrutiny by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), following a report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
It was learned that Sa’idu’s passport has been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
In June 2024, an ad hoc committee set up by the Kaduna Assembly recommended a probe into Nasir El-Rufai and several of his aides over alleged financial irregularities during his tenure. The assembly accused El-Rufai’s administration of diverting public funds amounting to N423 billion and laundering money.
The assembly further alleged that many of the loans acquired by the El-Rufai administration were diverted for purposes other than those stated.
The arrest of Sa’idu marks a significant development in the broader investigation into allegations of financial misconduct involving the former governor and his close associates.
Source : The Cable
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