The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, on a nine-count charge bordering on alleged advance fee fraud and money laundering.
The arraignment was held on Monday before Justice Darius Khobo at the Kaduna State High Court.
The ICPC prosecution team, led by Dr. Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha, amended the initial charge to separate El-Rufai’s trial from that of his co-defendant, Amadu Sule, who was absent in court due to reported health challenges.
The court approved the amendment, allowing the prosecution to proceed solely against El-Rufai.
The charges against the former governor include alleged violations of multiple laws, including the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 and the Advance Fee Fraud Act 2006.
El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all nine charges when they were read in court.
Following the plea, the prosecution requested a trial date and urged the court to ensure the defendant’s consistent appearance. The defence, however, applied for bail on liberal terms, citing a pending application.
Justice Khobo adjourned the case to April 14, 2026, for a ruling on the bail application and ordered that El-Rufai be remanded in ICPC custody pending the decision.
