The Federal High Court in Abuja has transmitted the fundamental human rights case file that was instigated by the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, to the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), so that it can be reassigned.
The development came after Justice Belgore announced his withdrawal from the suit in an open court on Wednesday, February 27, saying that the return of the case file was necessary because he was proceeding on leave.
Justice Belgore has announced his withdrawal from the human rights case filed by the former governor of Kaduna, Nasir El-Rufai.
Judge withdraws from Nasir El-Rufai’s suit
According to Daily Trust, the court earlier adjourned the suit on Wednesday, February 25, to Thursday, February 26, to hear the bail application of the former governor.
The suit sought the enforcement of El-Rufai’s fundamental rights against security and anti-graft agencies, which included the Department of State Services (DSS), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Attorney General of the Federation.
El-Rufai, who dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after he was denied a ministerial slot through Senate screening, reported to the office of the EFCC on his return to Nigeria. He was then arrested by the ICPC after being released by the EFCC and has been in the custody of the anti-graft agency.
Muyiwa Adekeye, the media aide to the former governor, shared the news of the judge’s withdrawal from the case on social media. The report has started generating reactions from Nigerians.
“Men who voluntarily report themselves are detained, but Yahaya Bello, who refused to show up, is dining in Aso Rock. It shall never be well with Kurumbu and his supporters.”
Mohammed Nasir Abdullahi decried the situation:
“Attempts to deny bail, coupled with the setback in Nasir El-Rufai’s case following the judge’s withdrawal and reassignment of the file, send a troubling signal about due process and risk eroding public confidence in the integrity of our justice system.”
Tetly summed up the case:
“What happens next: Proceedings are paused until a new judge is assigned. Only then can the case, including his bail application, move forward. Bottom line: It’s a procedural delay, not a win or loss for either side. The case continues, just with a different judge.”
