Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is set to be transferred to Kaduna to face a new corruption trial, according to a senior security source.
The development comes as the former governor remains in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). While details of the fresh charges are still unclear, sources confirmed on Tuesday that arrangements are underway for his transfer.
The case adds to mounting scrutiny over El-Rufai’s tenure between 2015 and 2023. Earlier investigations by the Kaduna State House of Assembly alleged serious financial irregularities, including mismanagement and misappropriation of public funds. The Assembly said its findings had been forwarded to relevant authorities for further action.
Public pressure has also intensified, with civil society groups staging protests and demanding accountability over the allegations. Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has further claimed that about ₦423 billion could not be accounted for under the previous administration, an accusation dismissed by El-Rufai’s allies as politically motivated.
Meanwhile, El-Rufai has accused officials of the ICPC of attempting to coerce him into abandoning politics as a condition for his release. In a court filing, he alleged that operatives told him his freedom depended on his willingness to withdraw from political activities, a claim forming part of his ongoing legal challenge.
The former governor is currently pursuing a fundamental rights enforcement suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where he is seeking ₦1 billion in damages. He is also asking the court to declare the search of his residence unlawful and to order the return of seized items.
However, the Nigeria Police Force has opposed his claims, insisting that the search was conducted lawfully under a valid warrant. Authorities have argued that El-Rufai’s legal action is an attempt to obstruct ongoing investigations.
The court has adjourned the matter until March 25, 2026, as the legal battle surrounding the former governor continues to unfold.
