Court Denies El-Rufai’s Hopes in Corruption Allegations

El-Rufai’s aspirations in the alleged corruption case were dashed by the court’s recent decision. Discover the details of this legal setback.

The Kaduna Federal High Court has made a vital decision by rejecting jurisdiction over the case filed by Nasir El-Rufai, ex-governor of Kaduna state. His lawsuit aimed to reverse his indictment for suspected corruption brought forth by the Adhoc Committee of the State House Assembly in Kaduna.

LEADERSHIP reported that Justice R.M. Aikawa issued two distinct judgments, rejecting El-Rufai’s requests for the quashing of committee proceedings and recusal of the judge respectively.

Overall, the court rejected jurisdiction over the matter and instead of granting the requested dismissal or striking out of the case by both Respondents’ counsel, it utilized its authority under Section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act to transfer it to Kaduna State Chief Judge. The suit will now be deliberated on by a High Court in that state.

The verdict has been welcomed by lawyers as a triumph for the principle of law and autonomy within the judiciary. They believe that it serves as a forceful rebuke to any efforts aimed at subverting legal proceedings. While El-Rufai’s accusation still stands, its final resolution depends on the decision made by Kaduna State High Court.

The legal team representing the first respondent consisted of Femi Falana and Sani Katu, while the second respondent was represented by Sule Shuaibu, SAN (Attorney-General of Kaduna State) together with Jummai Danazumi.

El-Rufai’s attempts to dismiss the corruption allegations have suffered a major setback with this development, as they will now be addressed by the state high court.