There was mild drama at the Kaduna State High Court on Monday as former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was overheard discussing the forthcoming national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The development comes amid growing tension within the opposition party, which has insisted on proceeding with its convention despite warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
El-Rufai, who arrived at the court premises around 9 a.m., was seen briefly interacting with a loyalist before proceedings began. Dressed in a white babbanriga and ash-coloured cap, he was holding a document as he made his way into the courtroom alongside his legal team.
According to reports, the former governor was heard asking, “So tomorrow is the convention, right?” to which his associate responded, “God willing.” He reportedly smiled before proceeding into the courtroom in the company of one of his wives.
The ADC has maintained its position to go ahead with its national convention scheduled for Tuesday, defying INEC’s caution against conducting party activities that may not comply with established guidelines. The electoral body had earlier warned that such actions could lead to disputes and questions over legitimacy.
Despite the warning, ADC leadership has vowed not to back down, raising the possibility of a standoff with the electoral commission.
Security was visibly tightened at the court, with operatives deployed in and around the premises.
Meanwhile, the case involving El-Rufai is separate from another matter pending before the Federal High Court in Kaduna, where a bail application is expected to be heard on Tuesday.
Reacting to the trial, the ADC described the prosecution of the former governor as politically motivated, alleging a coordinated attempt by the Federal Government to suppress opposition figures ahead of future political contests.
