El-Rufai's Support Group Hires U.S. Lobby Firm Amid Trial

A support group for Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has engaged Vanguard Africa, a Washington D.C.-based lobbying firm, to assist with his trial by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The allegations against El-Rufai involve financial improprieties linked to his time as governor, with claims of diversions amounting to N423 billion in public funds.

The group, represented by Moham Salihu, emphasizes that El-Rufai is a prominent public servant whose career includes significant roles such as Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises. They express concern over the prolonged detention and delays in the judicial process, arguing that the case raises broader questions about the independence of public institutions in Nigeria.

The group urges foreign governments, democratic institutions, and civil society organizations to monitor developments closely and support efforts to protect judicial independence and democratic freedoms in Nigeria, especially with the upcoming 2027 elections.