A Federal High Court in Kaduna has ordered the interim forfeiture of ₦1.37 billion that was allegedly diverted from the state government’s coffers during former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration. The funds, which were meant for a light rail project that was never completed, were traced to a private account belonging to Indo Kaduna Marts JV Nigeria Limited.
Justice H. Buhari issued the forfeiture order on February 28, 2025, after an application by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The commission had uncovered the funds in a joint account linked to the Kaduna State Government and Indian investors, established for the failed project.
The judge directed the ICPC to publish a notice in two national newspapers, inviting anyone with a legitimate claim to the funds to present their case. The case will be heard on April 8, 2025, where potential claimants can argue against the permanent forfeiture of the funds.