Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Monday appeared before the Kaduna State High Court as proceedings resumed in the corruption case instituted against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

The case, which has attracted widespread public and political attention, involves multiple allegations including abuse of office, fraud, and the alleged mismanagement of public resources during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

At the resumed hearing, the court continued deliberations on El-Rufai’s bail application, which had been adjourned at a previous sitting. Legal representatives from both the prosecution and defence presented arguments, although detailed submissions were not fully disclosed at the time of filing this report.

El-Rufai is facing a multi-count charge filed by the anti-graft agency, with accusations bordering on financial impropriety and alleged diversion of public funds. He has, however, consistently denied all allegations, maintaining that the charges are unfounded.

In a related development, the former governor has reportedly petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, seeking the reassignment of the case to another judge. He cited concerns over alleged bias and insisted on the need for a fair and transparent trial.

Despite the ongoing legal battle, El-Rufai is said to remain politically engaged, with reports indicating his continued involvement in activities of the African Democratic Congress, particularly ahead of its forthcoming national convention.

The trial is expected to continue in the coming days, with the court set to rule on pending applications as proceedings unfold.