Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was present at the Kaduna State High Court on Monday as proceedings continued in his trial initiated by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
He is being tried alongside Amadu Sule over allegations including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and granting undue advantage.
The former governor arrived at the court around 9 a.m. amid tight security, attracting attention from supporters, legal observers, and members of the public who had gathered ahead of the session.
Court proceedings were expected to proceed with arguments from both the prosecution and defence teams as at the time of filing this report.
Prior to entering the courtroom, El-Rufai was reportedly overheard discussing the forthcoming convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with an associate.
He was said to have inquired if the event would take place the following day, to which the associate replied, “God willing,” indicating his continued involvement in political matters despite the ongoing trial.
In a separate case, the former governor is also facing a 10-count charge before the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
The charges include alleged abuse of office, money laundering, and fraud amounting to ₦579.6 million and $1.1 million.
A bail hearing in that matter has been scheduled for April 14.
Supporters of the former governor have expressed optimism that the judicial process will ultimately clear him of the allegations.