Progressive traditional ruler in Nigeria probed for graft

LEGISLATORS in northern Nigeria have opened an investigation into corruption claims against one of the country’s leading traditional rulers, whose progressive views have caused controversy in a conservative region.

The legislature in Kano state on Wednesday set up a committee to probe eight allegations against the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, over the embezzlement of funds belonging to the emirate council.

Other claims include abuse of office and improper conduct.

The eight-member committee is expected to report its findings to the state house of assembly within two weeks.

The announcement came two weeks after the Kano state anti-corruption agency began looking into the finances of the state-funded emirate council – the equivalent of a royal court.

That probe centres on the use of six billion naira (R250-million) of palace funds to pay for luxury cars, chartered flights, phone and internet bills as well as other personal expenses, according to a source familiar with the matter.

The council has denied the allegations.

Supporters of the emir, who before his appointment in 2014 was governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, claim he is being targeted for his progressive views.

The Western-educated ruler has broken with royal tradition, speaking out about the need for social reform in the conservative region, pitching him against political and religious interests.

The house committee chairman on works, Ibrahim Ahmad Gama, accused Sanusi of introducing strange religious issues and involvement in politics.

Sanusi had come under public criticism for sending his daughter, Shahida, to represent him at public functions instead of royal aides, as is the usual protocol. Her mode of dressing has also been criticised.