The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed an amended nine-count charge against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over alleged fraud, abuse of office, and corruption.
The Kaduna State High Court has fixed Tuesday, April 14, to rule on his bail application.
The prosecution presented a revised charge sheet during Monday’s court session.
According to defence counsel Ukpong Abang, the amended charges removed one of the earlier defendants, leaving El-Rufai as the sole accused.
He noted that the charges were served on the defence team in court, limiting their ability to respond immediately.
Meanwhile, the defence expressed concern over the timing of the amended charges.
Abang said the legal team needs time to review the new allegations before proceeding. As a result, the case could not move forward to full hearing.
He assured that the defence would study the charges and respond appropriately.
After hearing arguments, the court adjourned the matter.
It scheduled Tuesday, April 14, for a ruling on El-Rufai’s bail application. The decision will determine whether the former governor remains in custody or regains temporary freedom.
The charges, filed under case number KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/2026, include multiple allegations tied to El-Rufai’s time in office.
The ICPC claims that El-rufai approved an N11 billion payment for a light rail project allegedly not executed, authorised and received about N289.8 million in severance benefits, exceeding the approved N20 million
The Anti-Graft agency also alleged that the former Governor mismanaged over $1 million from a World Bank loan, conspired with others to influence federal investigators, violated procurement laws in awarding a multi-billion-naira CCTV contract, granted undue advantages and carried out questionable land allocations
The prosecution argues that these actions amount to serious breaches of public trust and financial regulations.
Earlier, the ICPC arraigned El-Rufai alongside businessman Amadu Sule before Justice Darius Khobo.
He remained in ICPC custody from February 19 until March 28. Authorities later granted him temporary release on compassionate grounds to attend his mother’s burial, the case is expected to attract significant public attention as it progresses.
The court’s upcoming decision on bail could shape the pace and direction of the trial.
