The case was instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which is prosecuting allegations bordering on abuse of office, fraud, and financial misconduct during his tenure as governor.
El-Rufai, who has consistently denied all the allegations, maintains his innocence through his legal team.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, the former governor arrived in court at about 9:30am, escorted by operatives of the ICPC, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the police.
Earlier sessions in the matter had centred on bail applications and related legal submissions, as the defence and prosecution continue to present their arguments.
Prosecutors allege that public funds were disbursed for projects that were either not executed or were not properly accounted for, claims which the defendant has strongly disputed.
At Monday’s proceedings, the court was expected to continue hearing motions and arguments from both sides as the trial progresses.
Recall that on April 14, 2026, Justice Rilwan Aikawa granted El-Rufai bail in the sum of ₦200 million, with conditions requiring two sureties — one of whom must be a serving or retired civil servant not below Grade Level 15, and the other a recognised traditional ruler.
While El-Rufai’s legal team had also sought a variation of the bail conditions at the Federal High Court, a separate Kaduna State High Court presided over by Justice Darius Khobo declined a bail request, citing concerns that his influence could potentially interfere with ongoing investigations into the ICPC charges.
However, the court did not proceed with Tuesday’s planned hearing, adjourning the matter after noting the absence of two co-defendants in the case.