The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to resist political interference in law enforcement, following the arrest and release of Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC).
He called the incident a threat to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the incident as a case of corruption fighting back.
He warned that such actions could derail Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust.
Rafsanjani criticized the circumstances surrounding Rimingado’s arrest, suggesting it is linked to the commission’s ongoing investigation into properties allegedly connected to a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The Inspector General of Police must not allow his office to be used by desperate politicians to undermine anti-corruption efforts or shield powerful individuals from legitimate investigations,” Rafsanjani said.
“Actions like these not only tarnish the reputation of the police force but also erode public confidence in the impartiality of state institutions.”
Rimingado was detained on Friday evening over the seizure of properties suspected to be proceeds of crime, as part of the Kano Anti-Graft Agency’s investigation and prosecution of the former Managing Director of the Kano Agricultural Supply Company.
The actions were reportedly carried out in accordance with the agency’s enabling law and a court order. Rimingado was released on bail the same night but was directed to report to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for further questioning on Monday.
Rafsanjani further warned that such interference damages Nigeria’s global image and undermines the administration of President Bola Tinubu, which has pledged to prioritize transparency and accountability.
“Political interference in law enforcement must be resisted to ensure justice is upheld and the integrity of Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework is preserved,” CISLAC concluded