By John Umeh
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has scheduled the arraignment of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on Tuesday, March 31, over allegations bordering on fraud and money laundering.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, John Okor Odey, the commission disclosed that the charges, filed on March 18, accuse El-Rufai of unlawfully converting and retaining public assets. He is expected to appear in court alongside a co-defendant, Joel Adoga.
The anti-graft agency further revealed that a separate legal action has been initiated at the Kaduna State High Court. This case reportedly involves allegations including abuse of office, fraud, and actions allegedly aimed at securing improper benefits.
According to the commission, the state-level case—filed under reference number KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26—also names Amadu Sule, identified with LEDA, as a co-defendant. Authorities noted that both matters were instituted on the same date, March 18, 2026, while the hearing date for the state court proceedings will be announced in due course.
The commission maintained that all necessary legal procedures have been followed, confirming that El-Rufai has been properly served with the charges and reiterating its commitment to due process and the rule of law.
El-Rufai’s legal troubles come after his earlier detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in February. Although he was later released, he has remained in the custody of the ICPC. A magistrate court had previously approved a 14-day extension of his detention on March 5.
The development has sparked reactions from opposition voices, who have called on authorities to either formally prosecute the case or release him.
Meanwhile, El-Rufai has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, filing a suit to challenge the legality of the search carried out at his residence as well as the validity of the remand order issued on February 19.
