Tight Security as ICPC Arraigns El-Rufai in Kaduna

On Tuesday morning in Kaduna, former governor Nasir El-Rufai was brought before the Federal High Court for arraignment as heavy security presence surrounded the area, with operatives from multiple agencies deployed to maintain order and control movement.

Security personnel from the Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, Mobile Police Force, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were stationed at key points leading to the court located within the old Nigerian Defence Academy. The deployment began early in the day, around 7:00 a.m., with strict checks and road control measures in place.

Traffic was affected as vehicles were restricted to a single lane along the Ungwan Sarki and Kawo routes, causing delays for commuters heading toward the court area. The tight security followed an earlier announcement by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission that the former governor would be formally charged in court.

According to the anti-graft agency, El-Rufai appeared alongside another defendant, Joel Adoga, in a case filed before the Federal High Court in Kaduna. The charges include alleged handling of public assets without proper authority and involvement in money laundering activities.

The commission also disclosed that a separate case had been filed at a Kaduna State High Court against El-Rufai and another individual, Amadu Sule. The state case involves allegations such as misuse of office, fraud, and actions said to have given unfair advantage.

Authorities said both cases were filed on March 18, 2026, adding that proceedings in the state court would begin on a later date to be announced. The commission maintained that the former governor had been properly notified of the charges and that all legal steps were being followed.

The court appearance comes after weeks of legal developments involving El-Rufai. He was earlier arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in February, granted bail shortly after, and then taken into custody again by the ICPC.

The situation had drawn reactions from political groups and civil organisations, including the African Democratic Congress, which called for either his release or formal arraignment. Some groups and family members also raised concerns about his detention before charges were filed.

As proceedings began, security remained tight around the court, with authorities working to prevent disruptions while the case moved forward through the legal process.