Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Monday appeared before the Kaduna State High Court as proceedings in his ongoing trial resumed.
The case, instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), involves multiple allegations against the former governor. El-Rufai is standing trial alongside co-defendant Amadu Sule on charges bordering on abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and the alleged conferring of undue advantage during his time in office.
Moments before entering the courtroom, El-Rufai was overheard discussing political developments, specifically the upcoming national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), scheduled for Tuesday. In a brief exchange with an associate, he acknowledged the event, responding “Insha Allah” when reminded of the gathering.
In addition to the state-level proceedings, the former governor is also facing a separate trial before the Federal High Court in Kaduna. That case, also filed by the ICPC, includes a 10-count charge involving alleged abuse of office, money laundering, and fraud amounting to ₦579.6 million and $1.1 million.
El-Rufai has consistently denied all allegations brought against him, maintaining his innocence as both cases progress through the courts.
His current legal challenges began shortly after his return to Nigeria from Cairo, Egypt, on February 12, 2026. Upon arrival, he was initially taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before being transferred to the ICPC for further investigation and prosecution.
Although he was granted temporary release on compassionate grounds to attend his mother’s burial, he subsequently returned to custody in compliance with court directives.
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court in Kaduna had earlier fixed April 14 for the hearing of his bail application—coinciding with the ADC national convention—adding a political dimension to the unfolding legal proceedings.
The trials continue to draw significant public and political attention across the country.
