VIDEO: EL-RUFAI DEPARTS KADUNA HIGH COURT AFTER LENGTHY PROCEEDINGS

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By: Fasasi Hammad

After more than nine hours of proceedings on Tuesday, the Kaduna State High Court, presided over by Justice Darius Khobo, adjourned the corruption trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, until November 30 and December 1, 2026, for further hearings.

The case is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which filed a nine-count charge against the former governor over alleged fraud, abuse of office, financial misconduct and money laundering linked to his 2015–2023 tenure.

El-Rufai appeared in court in person following an order by the judge after he was absent from proceedings on Monday. The court had been informed that he requested to consult his personal physician over medical test results.

During Tuesday’s hearing, a Department of State Services operative and digital forensics examiner, Segun Kayode, reportedly testified that an analysis of telephone records and audio recordings revealed discussions about an alleged $600,000 payment intended to halt investigations into certain companies.

According to the testimony, $500,000 was allegedly earmarked for officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), while $100,000 was intended for an intermediary.

The defence counsel challenged the admissibility of the forensic report, arguing that adequate notice had not been provided. However, Justice Khobo overruled the objection and allowed the testimony to continue.

The allegations have yet to be established by the court, and the trial remains ongoing.

The lengthy hearing represents a significant development in the accelerated proceedings ordered while El-Rufai remains in ICPC custody, where he has reportedly been held since February 18, 2026.

The latest proceedings also follow a decision by the Court of Appeal in Kaduna dismissing his appeal and upholding the High Court’s earlier refusal to grant him bail.

Both the prosecution and defence are expected to return to court on the scheduled dates as proceedings continue.