Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, on Monday appeared before the Kaduna State High Court as proceedings resumed in his ongoing trial instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
El-Rufai who adorned white babbanriga outfit and an ash colour cap was reading from a white paper in his hand as he walked into the courtroom with his lawyers. He was overheard speaking with an associate about the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national convention scheduled for Tuesday.
“So tomorrow is our convention, right?” El-Rufai asked. “Insha Allah (God willing),” the associate replied. The former Kaduna Governor subsequently smiled and walked into the courtroom alongside one of his wives.
The exchange highlights El-Rufai’s continued active involvement in opposition politics despite the ongoing legal battle. The ADC has described El-Rufai’s trial as a witch-hunt, accusing the Federal Government of targeting opposition leaders.
Meanwhile, former attorney general and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami, has said the ADC is a formidable coalition formed to rescue Nigeria and unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels of governance during the 2027 polls.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Bello Doka on Monday, Malami stated that he remains resolute, unshaken and dogged in his quest to reposition Kebbi State through the ballot box, having witnessed unprecedented support when he returned home after almost ceaseless political persecution from the APC central government.
“My homecoming is not ordinary but a clear message of an uncompromising quest for truth and rescue. In ADC we have a formidable coalition capable of rescuing Nigeria and our state; I will remain undeterred and strong in the face of political persecution.”
He added that the quest for fair and just governance is a fearless one as it seeks to change the narratives that Nigeria is beyond repairs.
“We believe in our country; we have confidence in our massive support. Therefore, together we can rescue our people with no retreat, no surrender: ‘Babu Kudu Babu Ja Baya’,” the immediate past federal attorney-general said.
