The Kaduna State High Court on Monday adjourned ruling on the bail application of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, till Tuesday, following the amendment of charges by the prosecution.
At the resumed hearing, the court read the amended charges to the defendant and took his plea. The prosecution also dropped one of the earlier co-defendants, leaving El-Rufai as the sole defendant in the case.
Counsel to the defendant, Ubong Akpan, told journalists after the proceedings that the session was largely centred on the revised charges, which the defence would require time to study ahead of substantive hearing.
He said, “The motion for bail was taken. The court took the plea of the defendant, and the prosecution amended the charge and removed one person, leaving only Mallam El-Rufai to face prosecution.”
Akpan added that the defence team would carefully review the fresh charges, describing them as requiring detailed examination.
The former governor is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission over allegations bordering on abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
He is also facing a separate 10-count charge before a Federal High Court in Kaduna over alleged abuse of office, money laundering and fraud involving N579.6 million and $1.1 million.
There was heavy security presence within and around the court premises, with operatives strategically deployed to maintain order during the proceedings.
El-Rufai, who appeared calm, was seen exchanging remarks with an associate before entering the courtroom. He also alluded to the forthcoming convention of the African Democratic Congress, signalling his continued involvement in political activities.
The case has been adjourned till Tuesday for ruling on the bail application.
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