Muhyi Magaji Rimin Gado chairs the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC). He recently likened Nigeria’s anti-corruption battle to the war against drug cartels. US and Colombian authorities fought these cartels for decades.

Mr. Rimin Gado expressed deep concern. His investigation uncovered alleged looting of billions in Kano State. This occurred under former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The probe has brought constant threats to his life. His family also faces danger. Armed security agents even arrested him last Friday.

He spoke at a public event in Lagos. It was the launch of the 19th Edition of the Compendium on 100 High Profile Corruption Cases in Nigeria. Mr. Magaji reiterated that fighting corruption in Nigeria is as perilous as confronting armed Colombian drug cartels.

He also connected rising violence and banditry in the North to stolen public funds. Corrupt officials, he stated, create policies that foster poverty. This human misery becomes a breeding ground for criminals, offering many potential recruits.

Uncovering Billions in Illicit Funds

Mr. Rimin Gado began investigating corruption petitions. He then discovered links between Ganduje and most companies in public-private partnerships. These ventures operated within the state.

His work also exposed billions in illicit funds. These related to the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Fraudulent land rents were a particular concern.

Reflecting on his experience, he described politicians as “cancerous ailments.” He believes they need a painful, necessary surgical removal. This is crucial for Nigeria to regain its pride among nations.

The Ordeal of Arrest and Compromised Law Enforcement

Mr. Magaji recounted his recent arrest. He endured 17 harrowing hours. He was bundled into a vehicle. Armed policemen sandwiched him throughout the journey. The experience shocked him.

He observed that escape would have been slim. This was if armed bandits had attacked the convoy. He emphasized the gravity of his investigations.

“The cases I started in Kano involve billions of public funds,” he stated. “Public officials diverted these funds. They are desperate to kill. They want to keep stolen money. They are as dangerous as drug cartels in Colombia. Fighting them is like fighting drug lords.”

Mr. Magaji stressed a critical point. Corruption cannot be fought effectively. This is true when law enforcement agents are compromised. Corrupt politicians, he noted, have no respect for accountability.

He alleged that certain policemen are being used against him. He attributed this to “powerful but stupendously corrupt politicians.” These individuals, he claimed, “feed on the misery of the toiling masses.”

The Kano PCACC chairman questioned the Nigeria Police Force’s actions. He asked why they would criminally investigate a judicial process. This process was initiated under Section 211 of the Nigerian Constitution. He argued it is prejudicial. The police, he said, should not pursue someone who filed corruption charges on behalf of the state.

“The Attorney General gave me fiat,” he added. “I was to prosecute allegations of offense against Kano State laws. Why arrest me for fulfilling my legal duty? Why not arrest the state if they could?”

He concluded that the police lack legal or moral grounds. They should not inquire about matters already before a court of law. This is especially true for criminal matters. The court has already taken cognizance of them.