Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to April 23.
The Department of State Services filed a three-count charge against the former governor over alleged unlawful interception of communications.
The charges stem from remarks he reportedly made during a television interview.
The court had previously scheduled February 25 for his arraignment. However, proceedings did not go ahead as planned because the former governor was not present in court on Wednesday.
Counsel to the DSS, Oluwole Aladedoyin, informed the court that El-Rufai remains in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission. According to the prosecution, he is currently being investigated by the commission over allegations of fund misappropriation.
Following this disclosure, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to April 23 to allow for his arraignment.
Further updates are expected as the case progresses.
What You Should Know
The case marks a significant legal development involving a former state governor and senior political figure.
The DSS charges relate to alleged unlawful interception of communications, while a separate investigation by the ICPC concerns alleged financial misconduct. El-Rufai’s continued detention under the ICPC reportedly affected his ability to appear in court for arraignment.
The adjournment means formal plea proceedings have yet to begin. The outcome of both the criminal charge and the corruption probe could have broader political and legal implications, given El-Rufai’s prominence in national politics.
