Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has formally decided to file a no-case submission in his trial concerning alleged national security violations. His legal counsel, Paul Erokoro, SAN, communicated this intent to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, immediately after the Department of State Services (DSS) rested its case.
The prosecution, represented by Oluwole Aladedoye, SAN, stated that they would call no further witnesses, asserting that the evidence presented thus far sufficiently supports the charges against El-Rufai. In response, Erokoro requested two weeks to submit a motion arguing that the prosecution failed to provide enough evidence to warrant a continued trial.
During the session, the defense also sought to ease existing bail conditions, labeling requirements for specific civil servant guarantors and property ownership in Maitama or Asokoro as overly burdensome. Justice Abdulmalik denied this request, maintaining that such qualified public officials are available. The case has been postponed until September 22 for the filing of the no-case application.
The litigation stems from statements El-Rufai made during an Arise TV interview, where he claimed he intercepted a phone conversation involving National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. He alleged this call contained directives for his arrest, linking the matter to a February 12 incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. El-Rufai, who has entered a plea of not guilty to a five-count amended charge, remains under scrutiny for these claims.
