EL-RUFAI ARRAIGNED IN KADUNA AS TIGHT SECURITY LOCKDOWN GRIPS COURT PREMISES

The Federal High Court in Kaduna has become the center of national attention following the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, earlier today.

Heavy Security Presence

A strong security presence was observed around the court premises, with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps forming a multi-layered security cordon near the old NDA site.

The deployment caused major traffic disruptions, as motorists were diverted into single lanes along the Ungwan Sarki axis toward Kawo, resulting in heavy congestion across the area.

Charges Against El-Rufai

El-Rufai, dressed in a light green babanriga, was brought before the court in connection with suit number FHC/KD/73/2026. The charges, filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), include alleged conversion and unlawful possession of public property, as well as money laundering.

In addition, a separate state-level case (KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26) accuses the former governor of abuse of office and fraud.

Despite the high-profile proceedings, journalists were barred from entering the courtroom, a move that has drawn criticism from civil society groups calling for transparency in the judicial process.

El-Rufai, who has been in custody since mid-February, has denied all allegations, insisting that the charges are politically motivated.