By Fredrick Ameh
The legal battle surrounding Nasir El-Rufai took a new turn on Monday as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) filed an amended nine-count charge, positioning the former governor as the sole defendant in the case.
At the Kaduna State High Court, El-Rufai’s counsel revealed that the revised charges were introduced unexpectedly during proceedings, forcing the defense team to request time for a proper review. Consequently, the court adjourned the matter to April 14, 2026, to rule on his pending bail application.
The charges span allegations of fraud, abuse of office, and financial misconduct during his tenure as Governor of Kaduna State. Central to the case is a disputed ₦11 billion light rail project contract, alongside claims of inflated severance benefits and the questionable handling of over $1 million in World Bank-linked funds.
Other accusations leveled against the former governor include, procurement breaches: Alleged violations tied to a major CCTV contract. Unlawful land allocations: Claims of land distributions benefiting close associates. Obstruction: Alleged attempts to influence federal investigators.
With the amended charges narrowing the focus solely on El-Rufai, the case enters a critical phase. The court’s upcoming decision on bail is expected to significantly shape the pace and direction of the trial.