The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned a political associate of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over an alleged N311 billion money laundering scheme. The case was filed before a federal high court, where the defendant was charged with multiple counts bordering on financial misconduct and illegal handling of public funds.

According to the anti-graft agency, the accused allegedly conspired with others to divert and launder public money through a complex network of accounts and transactions. The ICPC said the alleged activities took place over a period of time and involved funds meant for public projects and development programmes.

The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to all the charges when they were read in court. His legal team argued that the allegations were politically motivated and lacked factual basis, urging the court to grant him bail and allow the matter to be tested properly during trial.

The court adjourned the case to a later date for hearing and ruled on preliminary matters, including bail and document exchange. The ICPC maintained that it would pursue the case to its logical conclusion, stressing that no individual is above the law in the fight against corruption.