Court Transfers El-Rufai's ₦423bn Fraud Case, Denies Attempt to Halt Proceedings

The Federal High Court in Kaduna State has declined jurisdiction in the ₦423 billion fraud case involving former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The case, which was initiated by El-Rufai against the Kaduna State House of Assembly, saw a series of legal maneuvers aimed at halting the proceedings and challenging the Assembly's actions.

On July 29, 2024, motions from the applicants were heard during a virtual court session presided over by Justice R.M. Aikawa.

The following day, July 30, Justice Aikawa delivered his ruling, stating that El-Rufai had failed to demonstrate any compelling circumstances that would justify setting aside the court proceedings as requested.

Justice Aikawa also addressed El-Rufai's application for recusal, dismissing it outright. He emphasized, "The applicant has not established any grounds that would compel this court to recuse itself," referencing several precedents in his ruling.

Instead of dismissing the entire suit, Justice Aikawa exercised his powers under Section 22(2) of the Federal High Court Act and transferred the case to the Chief Judge of Kaduna State for further determination.

This move shifts the responsibility to the state judiciary, where the case is expected to proceed. The court's decision marks a setback for El-Rufai, who is embroiled in a legal battle over the alleged ₦423 billion fraud.

The Federal High Court's decision to decline jurisdiction and transfer the case suggests that the legal proceedings will continue under a new jurisdiction, leaving the former governor to face further scrutiny.

This ruling signifies a critical point in the ongoing legal proceedings, highlighting the complexities and challenges involved in high-profile fraud cases.