Kaduna, March 24, 2026 — Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to money laundering charges as a Federal High Court in Kaduna adjourned the start of his trial to March 31, 2026.
El-Rufai was arraigned under heavy security on a 10-count indictment alleging financial improprieties, including money laundering and conversion of public property. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says he was arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga. The agency also confirmed a separate case against El-Rufai and another individual in Kaduna State High Court alleging abuse of office, fraud and conferring undue advantage.
Outside the courtroom, El-Rufai’s counsel said the prosecution’s charges mainly concern deposits to his domiciliary account and the monetisation of earnings, and that the former governor is directly implicated in only one of the counts. The lawyer added that the prosecution pressed for arraignment despite pending applications, and that the judge exercised discretion to proceed while scheduling March 31 to hear outstanding motions.
A bail application has been filed on El-Rufai’s behalf but could not be heard at Tuesday’s session; the court set March 31 to consider the bail motion and other pending applications.
Journalists were prevented from entering the courtroom by personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), prompting concerns about transparency from some observers. Security deployment at the courthouse included officers from the DSS, the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies.
El-Rufai’s arraignment follows weeks of controversy. He was first arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, granted bail on February 18, and subsequently re-arrested by the ICPC. His prolonged detention drew criticism from political actors and civil society groups alleging violations of his rights.
The matter remains adjourned to March 31, when the court will address the pending applications, including the bail request.
