March 24, 2026

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on Tuesday arraigned former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before the Federal High Court in Kaduna, after 38 days in detention over alleged corruption-related offences.

El-Rufai was brought before Justice Rilwan M. Aikawa on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion and possession of public property and money laundering.

The court adjourned proceedings to March 31, 2026, to hear pending applications, including a bail request expected to be filed by the defence.

Defence Raises Objection

Counsel to the former governor, Ubong Akpan, said the charges were largely linked to alleged deposits into his client’s domiciliary account and the monetisation of earnings.

He also disclosed that the defence objected to the arraignment, citing a pending matter involving the presiding judge, but noted that the court proceeded regardless.

“Out of 10 counts, they joined him on only one,” Akpan said, adding that all pending applications would be addressed at the next hearing.

The lawyer clarified that no bail application was heard during Tuesday’s proceedings, as the court prioritised the arraignment.

Supporters Rally Behind Ex-Governor

Following the hearing, Bello El-Rufai, who represents Kaduna North in the House of Representatives, expressed support for his father, describing him as the “father of modern Kaduna.”

Supporters also gathered at the court premises, chanting solidarity slogans and expressing confidence in his eventual acquittal. Some described the charges as politically motivated, while calling for adherence to due process.

Heavy Security at Court Premises

Security was significantly heightened around the court, located within the old Nigerian Defence Academy area in Kaduna. Operatives of the Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, and other agencies were deployed, with restricted vehicular movement along major routes leading to the venue.

Journalists were barred from accessing the courtroom during proceedings.

Multiple Charges, Ongoing Legal Battle

The ICPC said the former governor was arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga in suit number FHC/KD/73/2026. It also disclosed a separate case involving El-Rufai and another individual is pending before a Kaduna State High Court, with charges including abuse of office and fraud.

The arraignment follows weeks of legal controversy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention, which began after his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in February before his re-arrest by the ICPC.

Growing Reactions

The case continues to draw attention from political stakeholders and civil society groups, many of whom have called for respect for the rule of law and a transparent judicial process as proceedings continue.