El-Rufai Appears in Court for Trial on Alleged Financial Crimes

Nasir El‑Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has returned to the Federal High Court in Kaduna to continue his trial concerning alleged financial misconduct and the alleged wire‑tapping of the National Security Adviser. The case was brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

El‑Rufai entered the court building under a heavy security escort.

The prosecution’s case accuses him of abusing his office, engaging in financial impropriety and committing fraud while he was governor. The trial was previously adjourned to 24 June 2026 after two co‑defendants failed to appear.

El‑Rufai has denied all allegations, while the ICPC maintains that it possesses evidence supporting the charges.

According to the Daily Post, on 14 April 2026 the presiding judge, Justice Rilwan Aikawa, granted the former governor bail of N200 million. The bail conditions required two sureties: one a serving or retired civil servant at Grade 15, and the other a recognised traditional ruler.

El‑Rufai’s legal team subsequently requested a modification of the bail conditions, but the court rejected the application.

The court proceedings scheduled for Wednesday will also see the two co‑defendants present to continue the substantive hearing.

Details to follow…