The Federal High Court in Kaduna has adjourned the trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, to June 24, 2026, after two co-defendants failed to appear for Monday’s proceedings.
El-Rufai, who is facing prosecution by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), appeared before the court as scheduled.
The former governor, who is being tried over allegations bordering on abuse of office, financial misconduct, and fraud during his administration, arrived at the court premises at about 9:30 a.m. accompanied by officials of the anti-corruption agency and security personnel, including operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
However, the hearing could not proceed after two other defendants listed in the charge were absent from court.
Following submissions from legal representatives, the presiding judge adjourned the matter to June 24 for continuation of proceedings.
El-Rufai has continued to deny the allegations against him, maintaining that decisions taken during his administration complied with legal and administrative procedures.
The ICPC, however, alleges that public funds were approved and disbursed for projects that were either not executed or were improperly managed during his tenure as governor.
According to the commission, the charges are based on evidence obtained during its investigation and it remains committed to pursuing the case through the judicial process.
Previous court sessions had focused on arguments relating to bail conditions and preliminary applications filed by the defence team.
Monday’s hearing was expected to feature additional arguments on pending applications before the absence of the co-defendants stalled proceedings.
The trial has continued to attract public interest due to El-Rufai’s national political profile and his two-term administration as Kaduna State governor between 2015 and 2023.
Both the prosecution and defence teams are expected to return to court on June 24 as the case resumes.
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