El-Rufai Demands NJC Probe of Judge for Alleged Bias

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has intensified pressure on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate Justice R.M. Aikawa for alleged bias and denial of a fair hearing in a criminal case against him.

El-Rufai's legal team expressed surprise at Justice Aikawa presiding over the case, which involves 10 counts of corruption-related charges, including money laundering and abuse of office. El-Rufai submitted a petition to the NJC in February 2025, highlighting the judge's alleged misconduct, but has received no response despite reminders.

He warned that the delay in addressing his complaint could erode public confidence in the judiciary. El-Rufai urged the Chief Justice to transfer the case from Justice Aikawa, citing concerns over the judge's conduct and the potential for unwarranted harm to individuals associated with him.

The NJC confirmed that they are reviewing the petition, which was forwarded to Justice Aikawa, who has yet to respond.