El-Rufai Appears In Kaduna Court, Mentions ADC Convention
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Monday appeared before the Kaduna State High Court as proceedings resumed in his ongoing trial instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The court session drew attention not only because of the high-profile corruption charges against the former governor but also due to his continued involvement in opposition politics. Video footage circulating online showed El-Rufai arriving at the court premises, navigating through a crowded corridor of supporters, lawyers and onlookers.
Shortly before entering the courtroom, El-Rufai was overheard discussing the forthcoming national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), scheduled for the following day. In a brief exchange with an associate, he confirmed awareness of the convention, underscoring his active engagement in party affairs despite his legal challenges.
El-Rufai is standing trial alongside a co-defendant, Amadu Sule, on multiple charges including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage. The ICPC has also filed a separate 10-count charge against him at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, bordering on alleged abuse of office, money laundering, and fraud involving about ₦579.6 million and $1.1 million.
A bail hearing in the separate case has been scheduled to coincide with the ADC convention, further highlighting the intersection between El-Rufai’s legal battles and his political activities.
The ADC and some of El-Rufai’s supporters have described the trial as politically motivated, alleging that it is aimed at weakening opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections. However, the ruling party has dismissed such claims, insisting that the prosecution is part of ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
El-Rufai, who has consistently denied all allegations, remains a central figure in the evolving opposition coalition, even as his court cases continue to unfold.
