Bashir Saidu, former Chief of Staff to ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has been released after spending 50 days in detention. His release comes amid claims of political persecution, as alleged by El-Rufai.
The former governor confirmed the news on X, describing Saidu as a long-time friend and colleague. “Bashir has been my friend for over 53 years – a Barewa College classmate, former Commissioner of Local Government, and of Finance, and former Chief of Staff,” El-Rufai stated.
El-Rufai suggested that Saidu’s detention was politically motivated, vowing that those responsible would face repercussions before the 2027 elections.
Money Laundering Allegations and Legal Battle
Saidu was arrested in early January by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on money laundering charges. He was arraigned alongside Ibrahim Muktar, a civil servant in the state’s Ministry of Finance, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
According to case file No. FHC/KD/IC/2025, the defendants face two counts of money laundering. The prosecution claims that in March 2022, while serving as Commissioner of Finance, Saidu received ₦155 million in cash from Muktar, exceeding the legally allowed limit.
Court documents further allege that the transaction was made through Saidu’s Special Assistant, Muazu Abdu. Prosecutors argue that Saidu knowingly took control of the funds, which were allegedly proceeds of corruption.
Potential Legal Consequences
The charges against Saidu fall under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. If found guilty, he could face a prison term of four to 14 years, a fine of at least five times the illicit funds, or both.
ICPC Assistant Chief Legal Officer Osuobeni Akponimisingha signed the charges, which were officially filed at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. The case is expected to unfold in the coming months.
Kaduna Assembly’s Allegations Against El-Rufai
In a related development, the Kaduna State House of Assembly has accused former Governor El-Rufai of allegedly diverting over ₦423 billion in state funds. This development has sparked further scrutiny of past financial dealings in the state.
While Saidu is now free, the controversy surrounding his detention and the broader financial allegations continue to generate political and legal tension in Kaduna.
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