Court Postpones El-Rufai’s Trial Until June 24 After Two Co-Accused Fail to Appear

The Federal High Court in Kaduna on Monday adjourned the trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, until June 24, 2026 following the absence of two co-defendants listed in the matter.

El-Rufai, who is facing prosecution by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations bordering on abuse of office, financial impropriety and fraud during his administration, was present in court when the case was called.

The former governor arrived at the court premises at approximately 9:30 a.m alongside officials of the ICPC, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.

However, proceedings were halted after two other defendants named in the charge failed to appear before the court.

Following submissions by counsel representing the parties, the presiding judge adjourned the matter until June 24, 2026, for continuation of hearing.

The ICPC alleges that public funds were released for projects that were either not executed or improperly managed during El-Rufai’s eight-year tenure as governor of Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023.

The anti-corruption agency maintains that its charges are backed by evidence obtained during investigations and has pledged to pursue the case to its conclusion.

El-Rufai has consistently denied all allegations against him, insisting that decisions taken by his administration complied with due process and existing legal provisions. At previous proceedings, the court had entertained arguments relating to bail conditions and preliminary applications filed by the defence team.

Monday's hearing was expected to feature further arguments on pending motions before the absence of the two co-defendants forced the court to postpone proceedings.

The case continues to attract national attention due to El-Rufai's prominence in Nigerian politics and his influence within the country's political landscape.