Former Kaduna Governor Indicted for Corruption in CCTV Contract Case
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) has brought charges against former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, along with former Senior Special Adviser Jimi Lawal and five additional defendants. The indictment revolves around an alleged N8.68 billion contract for a CCTV surveillance system initiated during El-Rufai’s administration.
Legal Proceedings Initiated in Federal High Court
The anti-corruption body announced the arraignment in a statement released on its website, indicating that the defendants appeared before Justice Hauwau Buhari of the Federal High Court in Kaduna under case number FHC/KD/93C/2026. The charges include corruption, money laundering, and related offenses.
Defendants Named in the Scandal
The commission has identified El-Rufai as the principal defendant, alongside Lawal and various companies, including Singularity Network Security Limited, Solar Life Nigeria Limited, Knowledge Investment Nigeria Limited, Intercular Nigeria Limited, and Noble Coast Resources Limited. Additionally, Bashir El-Rufai, the former governor’s brother, has been implicated in the charges that have now made him a fugitive.
Allegations Regarding Contract Award
According to the ICPC, during his tenure, El-Rufai authorized the award of a contract valued at NOK 8.68 billion for a CCTV surveillance system in Kaduna to Singularity Network Security Limited. The commission asserts that this company lacked the necessary expertise and qualifications to execute the project, leading to the improper handling of funds.
Suspicion of Money Laundering Activities
The ICPC alleges that from 2017 to 2022, the defendants participated in a series of transactions that involved over two billion naira, believed to be proceeds from illicit activities. These funds were allegedly funneled through a network of companies and individuals connected to the case.
Details of Specific Charges Filed
In the first charge, the commission outlines that El-Rufai, as of December 2015, facilitated acts of corruption by approving the exorbitant CCTV contract with Singularity Network Security Limited, which was deemed unqualified for such a venture. The commission contends that this action was unlawful, violating the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.
Procedural Developments in Court
Both El-Rufai and Lawal entered not guilty pleas as the charges were presented in court. Justice Buhari has postponed further proceedings until July 1, 2026, to rule on the defendants’ bail application. Furthermore, the former governor is also contending with a separate lawsuit from the State Department regarding an alleged phone tapping of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
