KADUNA, Nigeria (FN) — Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai appeared in court this week after Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency filed amended charges accusing him and associates of corruption and money laundering tied to a multi-billion naira surveillance contract.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) presented an 11-count amended charge before the Federal High Court in Kaduna, alleging that El-Rufai and his co-defendants diverted funds from a closed-circuit television (CCTV) project awarded in 2015. The contract, valued at more than N8.6 billion (about S5.7 million), was meant to provide security coverage across Kaduna metropolis.
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, pleaded not guilty to the charges. His former aide, Jimi Lawal, and five companies linked to the project also entered not guilty pleas. The court adjourned the bail ruling until July 1.
The ICPC alleges that the contract was awarded to a company lacking qualifications under Nigeria’s procurement laws and that funds were laundered through several firms between 2017 and 2022. One of El-Rufai’s brothers, Bashir, was also named in the charges but is reported to be at large.
Nigeria has long struggled with corruption in public procurement, particularly in infrastructure and security projects. Surveillance contracts have been controversial, with critics arguing that inflated costs and weak oversight undermine their effectiveness.
El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, has faced scrutiny before. His administration promoted urban renewal and security initiatives, but opposition groups and civil society organizations often questioned transparency in contract awards.
The trial is being closely watched both domestically and internationally as a test of Nigeria’s anti-graft institutions. High-profile corruption cases in the country often stall in court, raising concerns about accountability and the rule of law.
Analysts say the outcome could influence public trust in government and investor confidence. Nigeria’s partners, including international donors and investors, have repeatedly emphasized the need for stronger governance and transparency to support economic growth.
Civil society groups welcomed the arraignment, calling it a step toward accountability. “This case must not be allowed to drag endlessly. Nigerians deserve to see justice served,” said one anti-corruption advocacy group in Abuja.
Public opinion remains divided. Some supporters of El-Rufai argue the charges are politically motivated, while others see them as necessary to curb impunity among political elites.
