El-Rufai Corruption Case Adjourned Following Court’s Consideration of Legal Challenges

A new hearing date has been set by the Federal High Court in Kaduna State for the case brought forward by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State.

El-Rufai approached the court on June 26th to challenge a corruption investigation report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly spanning his tenure.

In his plea, El-Rufai sought the court’s declaration of the Assembly’s report as invalid, citing violation of his right to a fair trial. He argued that he was not accorded the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations made by the House. The Attorney General of the State was also named as a respondent in his application.

During the start of the proceedings on Monday, Sani Katu, SAN, representing the state House of Assembly, informed the court of their intent to file a preliminary objection contesting the court’s jurisdiction over the case. This prompted a request for an extension to adequately prepare their legal responses against El-Rufai’s claims.

Supporting the call for more time, Kaduna State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Sule Shauaibu, SAN, who is also a defendant, emphasized the need for thorough legal preparation.

El-Rufai’s lawyer, Sule Umoru, did not oppose the request for an extension.

After considering the arguments put forth, Judge R.M AIKAWA decided to adjourn the case to July 17th, 2024. This extension aims to facilitate the submission of all necessary legal applications, including the main application, by the defendants.