Court postpones El‑Rufai’s trial to June 24 because two co‑defendants are missing.

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo, Kaduna

The Federal High Court in Kaduna adjourned the trial of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai to 24 June 2026 after two co‑defendants failed to appear.

El‑Rufai, who is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for alleged abuse of office, financial impropriety and fraud during his governorship, was present when the court convened.

He arrived at the court at about 9:30 a.m., accompanied by ICPC officials, as well as officers from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.

However, proceedings could not continue as scheduled because the two other defendants named in the charge were absent.

After counsel submitted their arguments, the presiding judge postponed the case to 24 June 2026 for the next hearing.

El‑Rufai has consistently denied the allegations, insisting that all actions taken during his administration complied with the law and established procedures.

The ICPC alleges that public funds were released for projects that were either not executed or were improperly handled during the former governor’s tenure.

The anti‑corruption agency says the charges are supported by evidence gathered during its investigations and is prepared to prosecute the case to its logical conclusion.

In earlier sittings, the court considered arguments regarding bail conditions and preliminary applications filed by the defence team.

Monday’s session was expected to feature further arguments on pending motions, but the unexpected absence of the two co‑defendants stalled the hearing.

The trial has attracted considerable public attention, given El‑Rufai’s prominence in national politics and his eight‑year tenure as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023.

With the matter now adjourned, both the prosecution and defence teams are expected to return to court on 24 June for the continuation of proceedings.

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