The Kaduna State House of Assembly speaker, Yusuf Liman, has cautioned Bello El-Rufai, the son of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, against intimidating the assembly regarding its investigation into his father’s eight-year tenure.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Liman’s spokesman, Suraj Bamali, revealed that Bello, a member of the House of Representatives representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency, made provocative remarks about the lawmakers on social media, later deleted, and sent the speaker disrespectful messages via WhatsApp.
Liman affirmed that such intimidation wouldn’t deter the assembly from ensuring justice and accountability, as he reiterated the assembly’s commitment to its oversight role and upholding the rule of law in Kaduna State.
“In light of recent events, the Kaduna State House of Assembly wishes to address the erratic and unruly actions of Hon. Bello Elrufai, the member representing Kaduna North Federal Constituency”.
“Shortly after the establishment of a committee to investigate financial dealings, loans, grants, and projects implementation from 2015-2023 in Kaduna State, Hon. Bello El-Rufai took to social media with two tweets, now deleted, insinuating a call to “fight” and disrespecting the entire Legislative Arm of Government. Additionally, he sent insulting and subtle threat messages to the Rt. Hon Speaker of Kaduna State House of Assembly, Hon Yusuf Liman via WhatsApp”.
“The screenshots of these tweets and messages have been widely circulated, causing concern among the citizens of Kaduna State. It is disheartening that a Federal Lawmaker, entrusted with representing the people, would resort to such behaviour, attempting to obstruct the lawful functions of the State Assembly”.
“Threats and intimidation from anyone, including federal lawmakers, will not deter the Kaduna State House of Assembly from its pursuit of justice and accountability. The Assembly remains resolute in its mandate to provide checks and balances and uphold the rule of law in Kaduna State”.
“We urge the good people of Kaduna State to remain vigilant and steadfast in their support for transparency, accountability and the rule of law. The Kaduna State House of Assembly will continue to serve the best interests of the state and its citizens,” the statement read.
