By Gwurld4026 
N1.37bn Forfeiture Ordered Amid El-Rufai Government Allegations
A Federal High Court in Kaduna has ordered the interim forfeiture of ₦1.37 billion allegedly diverted from the Kaduna State Government’s coffers during former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s administration (2015–2023). The funds were earmarked for a light rail project that was never executed, depriving residents of the intended transportation infrastructure.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) traced the diverted funds to a private account belonging to Indo Kaduna MRTS JV Nig. Ltd, a joint venture established in 2016 between the Kaduna State Government and Indian investors. Notably, this company was not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission at the time of the contract award, raising legal concerns.
Between December 2016 and January 2017, approximately ₦11.1 billion was transferred to the company’s account at Sterling Bank. Investigations revealed that ₦1.37 billion of this sum was illegally diverted into a private account.
Justice H. Buhari issued the forfeiture order on February 28, 2025, following an ex parte application by the ICPC. The court also mandated the publication of the forfeiture notice in two national newspapers, inviting any interested parties to present their claims. Further proceedings are scheduled for April 8, 2025.