El-Rufai fails to appear in court, trial put on hold till April 23

The planned arraignment of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations bordering on the unlawful interception of the phone communication of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, was stalled on Wednesday after the defendant failed to appear before the court.

The matter, which was scheduled to commence at a Federal High Court sitting, could not proceed as expected, prompting the presiding judge to adjourn the case until April 23.

At the resumed session, counsel to the prosecution informed the court that the case was slated for arraignment and hearing, but the absence of the former governor made it impossible for proceedings to continue. Defence lawyers were said to have explained that El-Rufai was unable to attend due to circumstances yet to be fully disclosed in open court.

The prosecution maintains that the charges relate to alleged unauthorised surveillance and interception of communications involving the NSA, claims which El-Rufai has consistently denied through his legal team. His lawyers insist that their client is ready to defend himself and describe the allegations as politically motivated.

Following submissions from both parties, the court granted an adjournment to allow all sides to properly prepare for the next hearing date. The judge also urged counsel to ensure that no further delays occur when the matter resumes.

The case has generated widespread public interest due to the high-profile personalities involved and its implications for national security and privacy laws. Legal analysts say the outcome could set an important precedent on the limits of surveillance and the protection of private communications in Nigeria.

Further proceedings are expected when the case returns to court on April 23, when the former governor is anticipated to take his plea.