Security presence was significantly reinforced on Tuesday around the Federal High Court in Kaduna ahead of the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged corruption offences.

Operatives from multiple security agencies, including the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, the Mobile Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were deployed to key locations surrounding the court complex situated within the old Nigerian Defence Academy area.

The heavy security arrangement, which began as early as 7:00 a.m., led to restrictions in vehicular movement, forcing motorists into a single lane from the Ungwan Sarki axis through Kawo and causing early morning traffic congestion.

The development followed confirmation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that it would arraign El-Rufai on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, before the Federal High Court in Kaduna.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Head of Media and Public Communications, John Odey, the commission disclosed that the former governor would be arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga in suit number FHC/KD/73/2026.

According to the ICPC, the charges against the defendants include alleged conversion and unlawful possession of public property, as well as money laundering.

The commission further revealed that a separate case had been instituted against El-Rufai and another defendant, Amadu Sule, before a Kaduna State High Court. The charges in that suit include abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.

It noted that both charges were filed on March 18, 2026, adding that the arraignment date for the state court matter would be announced later.

The ICPC maintained that El-Rufai had been duly served, reiterating its commitment to due process and adherence to the rule of law.

The arraignment comes amid growing pressure from stakeholders, including the African Democratic Congress, which had called for either his immediate release or formal arraignment, describing his earlier detention without charges as unconstitutional.

Also, the Muslim Rights Concern criticised his prolonged detention, while members of his family raised concerns over alleged violations of his rights.

Reports indicate that El-Rufai was initially detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16, 2026, granted bail on February 18, and later re-arrested by the ICPC.