“Corruption Fighting Back”: CISLAC Decries Arrest of Kano’s Anti-Corruption Chief
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has strongly condemned the recent arrest of Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, the Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC), by officers from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit. In a statement released by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the arrest as a clear case of “corruption fighting back,” warning that such actions undermine Nigeria’s collective efforts to fight corruption and diminish public trust in state institutions.
Rafsanjani expressed concern over the timing and nature of Rimingado’s arrest, linking it to his commission’s ongoing investigation into a high-profile case involving properties suspected to be linked to a senior member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Rimingado was reportedly detained on Friday evening due to the seizure of properties believed to be proceeds of criminal activity.
The investigation, which had been carried out by the Kano Anti-Graft Agency, was in accordance with its enabling law and a valid court order, focusing on the former Managing Director of the Kano Agricultural Supply Company. Although Rimingado was released on bail that same night, he was instructed to report to the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday for further questioning.
Rafsanjani further criticized the use of police power for what he viewed as a political agenda, urging the Inspector General of Police to ensure his office is not manipulated by desperate politicians seeking to block legitimate anti-corruption efforts. “Such actions not only tarnish the reputation of the police force but also undermine public confidence in the impartiality of state institutions,” he said.
He also pointed out the damaging effects of such interference on Nigeria’s global standing, particularly regarding transparency and investor confidence. CISLAC concluded its statement by emphasizing the need for Nigeria to resist political interference in law enforcement to ensure that justice is served and the integrity of the country’s anti-corruption framework is preserved.
