The legal situation surrounding former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, took a dramatic turn on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with major developments unfolding in both Abuja and Kaduna. From withdrawing a high-profile lawsuit to facing fresh charges in court, the day’s events have significantly reshaped his legal position.
Abuja: Withdrawal of ₦1 Billion Suit
At the Federal High Court in Abuja, El-Rufai withdrew his ₦1 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit against a Chief Magistrate. The decision followed concerns raised by the presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who noted a key flaw in the case—El-Rufai’s legal team failed to clearly identify the magistrate involved, referring only to a “2nd Defendant.”
In response, his lawyer, Ugochukwu Nnakwu, sought to remove the magistrate from the suit entirely. Although the ICPC’s counsel argued that this would render the case invalid, the court allowed the withdrawal. The matter was then adjourned to June 17, 2026, to give room for amendments.
Read more on: By-Elections Loom as Senate Declares Three Vacancies
Kaduna: Arraignment and Bail Delay
At the same time in Kaduna, El-Rufai faced more serious legal pressure as he appeared before both the State High Court and the Federal High Court.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigned him on a 10-count charge involving alleged misappropriation of public funds and money laundering. Despite his court appearance under tight security, he was not granted bail.
Justice Rilwan Aikawa postponed the bail hearing to Wednesday, April 1, 2026, after the prosecution submitted a last-minute counter-affidavit. In a brief twist, El-Rufai’s legal team initially filed a motion asking the judge to step down over alleged bias, but quickly withdrew the request.
Read more on: FG Declares End to University Strikes in Nigeria After Landmark ASUU Deal
A Fresh Chance in the ₦400 Billion Probe
These developments come shortly after a significant legal win for El-Rufai. On March 17, the Court of Appeal overturned an earlier Federal High Court decision that had dismissed his case against the Kaduna State House of Assembly’s ₦400 billion corruption probe.
The appellate court ruled that he had not been given a fair hearing and ordered that the case be retried from the beginning before a new judge. This effectively revives his challenge against the Assembly’s findings.
What Lies Ahead
All eyes are now on the Federal High Court in Kaduna, where a crucial decision is expected on April 1. The outcome of the bail hearing will determine whether El-Rufai remains in custody as the corruption case continues to unfold.
Read more on:
