The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has adjourned the multiple fraud case against former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El‑Rufai, to March 31, 2026, to enable the hearing of pending applications, including his bail request.
The case, instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), was presided over by Justice Rilwanu Aikawa. Defence counsel, Obong Abang, confirmed that bail and other applications had already been filed, prompting the adjournment.
Abang explained to journalists after the proceedings that the charges against El‑Rufai essentially relate to alleged deposits into his domiciliary account and monetisation of his earnings. He noted that co‑defendant Joel Adoga was joined only on one of the ten counts.
Journalists were barred from covering the proceedings, with no official reason given for the restriction. Security was tight around the court premises, with armed operatives deployed along the busy Anguwan Sarki–Kawo axis, causing traffic congestion.
El‑Rufai, who has been in ICPC custody since February 19, arrived at the court in a Hilux vehicle under heavy escort. He was dressed in a light green babanriga with a matching cap. Family members, including his two wives and his son, Bello El‑Rufai, a federal lawmaker representing Kaduna North, were present in court.
The adjournment sets the stage for the court to consider El‑Rufai’s bail application and other pending motions on March 31, as the corruption allegations continue to attract public and professional scrutiny.
... Court Adjourns El‑Rufai Fraud Case to March 31 for Bail Hearing ... Naijaonpoint.