DSS Bars Journalists From Covering El-Rufai’s Arraignment
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was on Tuesday arraigned at the Federal High Court in Kaduna over alleged corruption-related offences, under heavy security, as DSS operatives blocked journalists from covering the proceedings.
El-Rufai arrived at the court around 9:00 a.m. in a Hilux vehicle but remained inside for over 30 minutes before being escorted into the courtroom at about 9:34 a.m.
He was seen in a light green babanriga with a matching cap, flanked by heavily armed officers from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Security around the court, located in the old Nigerian Defence Academy area, was intensified, with personnel from the DSS, Nigeria Police Force, Mobile Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps deployed from early hours.
ICPC spokesperson John Odey confirmed that El-Rufai is being arraigned alongside Joel Adoga in suit number FHC/KD/73/2026.
The charges include conversion of and possession of public property as well as money laundering.
The commission also revealed a separate case filed against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule before a Kaduna State High Court, with charges including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Both cases were filed on March 18, 2026, though the state court arraignment date is yet to be announced.
El-Rufai’s arraignment follows his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, his subsequent release on bail, and a re-arrest by the ICPC, prompting criticism from political groups, civil society organisations, rights groups, and family members over alleged violations of his fundamental rights.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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