Proceedings in the trial of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, were on Thursday adjourned by a Federal High Court in Abuja following a series of legal arguments between prosecution and defence teams.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik fixed May 18, 19, and 20 for the continuation of hearing after entertaining multiple applications arising from the defendant’s arraignment by the Department of State Services (DSS).
El-Rufai was earlier docked on a five-count amended charge bordering on alleged unlawful interception of communications and threats to national security. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
At the resumed proceedings, DSS counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), informed the court that an amended charge filed on April 13 had increased the counts from three to five. With no objection from defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), the court struck out the earlier charge and substituted it with the new one.
The prosecution alleges that the former governor unlawfully intercepted communications involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and deployed technical means that could compromise national security.
Following the plea, the prosecution sought three consecutive trial dates, a request opposed by the defence on the grounds that El-Rufai’s detention under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission could limit access to counsel and hinder trial preparation.
The defence also drew attention to a pending bail application filed in February, noting that a previously missing affidavit was later found in the court’s records. The DSS indicated it had no objection to the bail request.
Tensions rose further as the prosecution applied for permission to shield the identities of two witnesses, citing safety concerns. However, the defence objected, arguing that such a move would violate the defendant’s constitutional right to know his accusers.
In another twist, the defence filed an application to quash the amended charge, while also urging the court to compel the prosecution to provide proof of evidence for proper case preparation. The prosecution opposed both applications, describing them as lacking merit.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter, setting the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched trial when proceedings resume in May.