The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna yesterday adjourned the ongoing trial of former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, to June 24, following the absence of two co-defendants in the case.

Moreso, el-Rufai is standing trial on charges bordering on alleged abuse of office, financial impropriety and fraud during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State, as filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The former governor had arrived at the courtroom at about 9:30 a.m., accompanied by officials of the ICPC, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.

However, the scheduled proceedings could not be held after two other defendants in the case failed to appear before the court, forcing the presiding judge to adjourn the case. Following the development, the court fixed June 24, 2026, for continuation of the hearing.

el-Rufai has continued to deny all allegations against him, maintaining that he acted within the bounds of the law throughout his tenure as governor.

The prosecution, however, maintains that public funds were allegedly released for projects that were either not executed or were irregularly handled under his administration. At earlier sittings, the court had considered arguments relating to bail terms as well as preliminary applications filed by the defence counsel.

Meanwhile, women’s groups operating under the auspices of the Coalition of Women Societies and Associations in Kaduna State have demanded respect for el-Rufai’s constitutional rights, as well as those of his former Chief of Staff, Bashir Saidu, and other associates who served under his administration.

In a statement by the coalition’s convener, Hafsat Baba, on behalf of over 100 women’s groups and associations across the state, the group expressed concern over what it described as the continued political persecution and unfair treatment being meted out to the accused.

It called for the immediate and unconditional release of any of the accused persons still being detained or subjected to restrictions contrary to the law. The coalition also urged security agencies, anti-corruption bodies and public institutions to remain impartial and avoid political influence in the discharge of their responsibilities.

According to the statement, selective treatment, intimidation and the alleged misuse of state institutions against political figures could weaken democratic values and set dangerous precedents for the future.

The women further stated their preparedness to pursue lawful and democratic means, including advocacy, civic engagement, legal consultations and peaceful actions, to ensure the protection of constitutional rights.

They also called on civil society organisations, the media, democratic institutions and the international community to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic governance, human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.

They expressed concern at the reports of investigations, allegations and actions allegedly targeted at el-Rufai and his former aides, stressing that political differences should not be allowed to undermine the constitutional rights and personal liberties of any Nigerian.

The coalition noted that democracy thrives when justice, fairness and the rule of law are upheld, regardless of an individual’s political affiliation or status.