A high-profile legal battle is set to unfold in Kaduna as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigns former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged financial misconduct.
El-Rufai, who was moved to Kaduna under tight security, is scheduled to appear before the Federal High Court to answer a 10-count charge bordering on abuse of office, conversion of public funds, and money laundering.
According to the ICPC, the arraignment falls within the legally approved detention period, dismissing claims of unlawful detention. The commission stressed that due process has been strictly followed and that the case is not driven by personal or political motives.
The former governor is also expected to face a separate 10-count charge at the Kaduna State High Court at a later date. Central to the allegations is a $1,080,000 World Bank loan secured during his tenure, for which he is expected to give a detailed account.
Sources within the commission revealed that investigations have intensified, with one former aide reportedly fleeing the country, while another—currently in custody—has provided useful information to aid the prosecution.
Security around El-Rufai’s movement was heightened to prevent any breakdown of law and order, especially given the strong public interest surrounding the case.
In a statement, ICPC spokesperson John Okor Odey confirmed that charges had been filed at both the Federal and State High Courts, covering offences such as fraud, abuse of office, and conferring undue advantage.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for fairness in the handling of the case, cautioning against the misuse of state power.
Atiku, who recently returned from Umrah, emphasized that no individual should be detained based on political or ideological differences, urging authorities to uphold the rule of law and democratic principles.
As proceedings begin, attention remains firmly on the courts, where the former governor is expected to seek bail while responding to the charges against him.
