Protesters storm Kaduna Government House, demand probe of El-Rufai

Demonstrators seek answers on Dadiyata disappearance, demand audit of loans and security record

Residents of Kaduna State on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Government House, demanding an investigation into the administration of former governor Nasir El‑Rufai and answers over the disappearance of Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata.

The protesters, made up of youths and women, gathered at the UTC roundabout in Kaduna metropolis before marching to the Government House, chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards demanding accountability. Messages displayed included calls for a public audit of El-Rufai’s administration, disclosure of loan agreements, and answers about Dadiyata’s whereabouts.

Dadiyata, a lecturer and social media commentator, was abducted by gunmen from his Kaduna residence in 2019 and has not been seen since, a case that continues to generate public concern.

Protesters demand accountability and transparency

Addressing journalists during the protest, one of the leaders, Anas Yusuf, said the demonstration was not politically motivated but aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

“We are not here for politics; we are here for accountability. Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai must answer hard questions. You governed, and now you must account,” Yusuf said.

Another protest leader, Joseph Chori, described Dadiyata’s disappearance as an unresolved issue that continues to trouble residents.

“A family still waits. Kaduna still asks: what happened?” he said.

The protesters also called for an independent public security audit of El-Rufai’s administration, arguing that insecurity escalated during his tenure and that citizens deserve clarity on the government’s response and actions during that period.

Calls for loan disclosure and financial audit

In addition to security concerns, the protesters demanded full disclosure of a $350 million World Bank loan obtained during El-Rufai’s tenure. They urged the Kaduna State Government to publish the loan agreement and provide a detailed breakdown of how the funds were utilised.

“Loans are not free money. Public debt demands public accountability because citizens will repay that debt. They deserve transparency,” one protester said.

The demonstrators also noted that Kaduna State is currently experiencing relative calm under Governor Uba Sani, adding that their protest was intended to strengthen democratic accountability rather than destabilise the state.

Former governor denies involvement

El-Rufai has previously denied any involvement in Dadiyata’s disappearance. In an earlier interview, he stated that the missing lecturer was a critic of the Kano State Government and not his administration in Kaduna.

The protesters, however, insisted that public scrutiny of past leadership decisions is necessary to ensure justice and prevent future abuses.

“This is not revenge; this is justice and democracy. Kaduna deserves accountability,” the group said.

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