The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has charged Muhammad Sa’idu, a former aide to ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, with alleged money laundering. Sa’idu, who previously served as commissioner for local government affairs, chief of staff, and commissioner of finance, is facing a two-count charge alongside Ibrahim Muktar, a staff member of the Ministry of Finance.
The ICPC alleges that in March 2022, Sa’idu accepted ₦155 million in cash, exceeding the legally allowed limit, and indirectly controlled the funds, suspected to be proceeds of corruption. The charges are based on the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which stipulates penalties of 4 to 14 years imprisonment or fines five times the value of the crime.
Saidu was arrested on January 2, 2025, following a petition alleging public fund diversion. The ICPC dismissed earlier claims that Sa’idu had been cleared after a 10-month investigation.
