The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna on Monday adjourned the ongoing trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, to June 24, following the absence of two co-defendants in the case.
Background of the Case
El-Rufai is standing trial on charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), bordering on alleged abuse of office, financial impropriety and fraud during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.
The former governor, who was present in court, arrived at the courtroom at about 9:30 a.m., accompanied by officials of the ICPC as well as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Proceedings Adjourned
However, the scheduled proceedings could not hold after two other defendants in the case failed to appear before the court, forcing the presiding judge to adjourn the case. Following the development, the court fixed June 24, 2026, for the continuation of hearing.
El-Rufai has continued to deny all allegations against him, maintaining that he acted within the bounds of the law throughout his tenure as governor. The prosecution, however, maintains that public funds were allegedly released for projects that were either not executed or were irregularly handled under his administration.
Previous Court Sessions
At earlier sittings, the court had considered arguments relating to bail terms as well as preliminary applications filed by the defence counsel. Monday’s proceedings were expected to feature further hearing of motions from both sides before the adjournment was announced.
