ICPC Begins Prosecution of El-Rufai’s Aide, Jimi Lawal, 3 Others
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has commenced the prosecution of Olajimi Shakiru Adebisi Lawal and three others before Honourable Justice R.M. Aikawa of the Federal High Court, Kaduna Judicial Division.
Lawal, who served as Aide to the former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is facing charges in connection with alleged fraudulent estacode payments and abuse of public office during their time in government service.
The trial began on Monday, July 21, 2025, with the prosecution producing three witnesses: Aisha Dikko Kalil, Bariyatu Yusuf, and Samuel Aruwan, all former senior officials of the Kaduna State Government.
READ ALSO: TMSG Hails Tinubunomics as Federally Generated Revenue Hits N4.232 Trillion
The witnesses testified that they received estacode allowances, but denied receiving any funds from Lawal.
Kalil, former Attorney-General of Kaduna State, testified that she received over ₦5m in estacode payments, while Yusuf, former Head of Service, acknowledged receiving just under ₦15m.
Aruwan, former Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, stated that his trainings were funded by the United States government and the Office of the National Security Adviser, not the Kaduna State Government.
The ICPC prosecutor, Dr. Osuobeni Ekoi Akpos, sought to tender Aruwan’s written statement to ICPC, but the defense counsel objected, citing procedural concerns.
The court adjourned the matter to September 24, 2025, for ruling and continuation of hearing.
