Heavy security presence was recorded on Tuesday at the Federal High Court Kawo ahead of the planned arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged corruption-related offences.
Security operatives, including personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Army, were deployed as early as 6:30 a.m. to strategic points around the court premises to maintain law and order.
The heightened security followed the announcement by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that El-Rufai would be arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga in a case bordering on alleged corruption and money laundering.
According to the ICPC, the duo is facing charges in suit number FHC/KD/73/2026, including the alleged conversion and unlawful possession of public property.
El-Rufai had earlier been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, 2026, before being granted bail two days later. He was subsequently re-arrested by the ICPC.
A statement issued by the ICPC’s spokesperson, John Odey, confirmed that the arraignment would take place at the Kaduna Judicial Division of the Federal High Court.
The heavy deployment of security operatives led to restricted vehicular movement in the area, with motorists forced into a single lane from the Ungwan Sarki axis through Kawo, resulting in early morning traffic congestion.
Authorities said the measures were necessary to prevent any breakdown of law and order before, during, and after the court proceedings.
