By Joy Onu
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has provided an update on the ongoing trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, before the Kaduna State High Court and the Federal High Court, Kaduna.
The Commission said the cases arose from investigations into alleged financial misconduct, abuse of office, fraud, and money laundering during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor of Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023.
ICPC disclosed that El-Rufai was arrested on or about 18th February 2026 after investigations were concluded, leading to the filing of a 10-count charge at the Federal High Court, Kaduna, against him and a co-defendant, Mr. Joel Adoga.
The charges border on alleged conversion and possession of proceeds of corruption, as well as money laundering offences under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The Commission alleged he received ₦289,826,998.12 as severance allowance, above his lawful entitlement of ₦20,013,245, and also received $797,900 into his domiciliary account from various individuals suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.
It further alleged that the defendant conspired with Mr. Joel Adoga to disguise the origin of $10,000 in July 2019. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
In a separate proceeding, El-Rufai was arraigned before the Kaduna State High Court on an amended 9-count charge bordering on abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferment of undue advantage under relevant anti-corruption and procurement laws.
At Tuesday’s sitting, Justice Darius Khobo adjourned ruling on the bail application after stating that the decision was not ready. The matter was fixed for 21st April 2026, while the court ordered that the defendant remain in ICPC custody pending the ruling.
In a related ruling, the Federal High Court in Kaduna granted El-Rufai bail in the sum of ₦200 million with two sureties in like sum, imposing conditions including surrender of his international passport, monthly reporting to ICPC, restriction to a specified residence, and prior court approval before any change of address.
The ICPC reaffirmed its commitment to due process and the rule of law, stating that it will continue to prosecute the case diligently and keep the public informed as proceedings progress.
