Manny Ita –
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was on Tuesday arraigned before the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), in proceedings marked by heavy security presence and heightened public interest.
The former governor arrived at the court premises under tight security, with armed personnel deployed around the complex and access roads cordoned off to control movement. Court officials confirmed that the charges were formally read, although details of the counts were not immediately disclosed in open court at the time of filing this report.
Counsel to the ICPC told the court that the arraignment followed the conclusion of preliminary investigations, stating that “the commission has sufficient grounds to bring the defendant before this honourable court.” The prosecution urged the court to proceed in line with due process, emphasizing that “this matter is of significant public interest and must be handled with diligence.”
In response, defence counsel representing El-Rufai maintained his client’s innocence, arguing that “the charges are unfounded and will be vigorously contested.” The defence further appealed for bail on liberal terms, noting that “the defendant has consistently made himself available and poses no flight risk.”
Presiding over the matter, the trial judge granted a request for adjournment after hearing initial submissions from both sides, fixing March 31 for the hearing of the bail application. The judge stated that “the court will take arguments on the bail application at the next adjourned date,” while directing all parties to ensure readiness.
Outside the courtroom, reactions were mixed as supporters and critics gathered in small groups under the watch of security operatives. A legal analyst present at the proceedings observed that “the adjournment is not unusual in cases of this nature, especially where the court needs time to consider filings,” adding that “the focus will now shift to the bail hearing and the substance of the charges.”
The development marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s anti-corruption enforcement landscape, as attention turns to how the case will unfold in the coming weeks, with both the prosecution and defence expected to intensify legal arguments ahead of the next hearing date.
