El-Rufai in Court Again, Chats About ADC Convention as Corruption Trial Resumes

By Tgnews Reporter

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai arrived at the Kaduna State High Court on Monday amid tight security as proceedings resumed in his ongoing corruption trial filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

El-Rufai is standing trial alongside Amadu Sule on multiple charges, including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage on others. The allegations relate to actions allegedly taken during and after his tenure as governor.

Before entering the courtroom, the former governor was overheard in a brief conversation with a close associate, inquiring about the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national convention scheduled for Tuesday.

“So tomorrow is our convention, right?” El-Rufai reportedly asked. His associate replied, “God willing,” underscoring that the embattled politician remains deeply engaged in opposition party activities despite his legal battles.

The development comes as El-Rufai also faces a separate 10-count charge at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, involving allegations of abuse of office, money laundering, and fraud relating to sums of N579.6 million and $1.1 million. A bail hearing in that matter has been fixed for Tuesday, April 14 — the same day as the ADC convention.

Supporters and ADC youth groups have previously described the timing of court adjournments and proceedings as potentially calculated to disrupt the party’s activities and weaken opposition figures. The party has vowed to proceed with its convention regardless.

El-Rufai has consistently pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. His legal team continues to push for bail, while the ICPC maintains its position on the gravity of the allegations.

Court proceedings at the State High Court on Monday proceeded without major incidents, though details of arguments presented remain limited as of press time. The case is expected to continue in subsequent hearings.

More updates will follow as the dual legal and political dramas unfold in Kaduna.