The Federal High Court in Kaduna has ordered the temporary forfeiture of ₦1.37 billion allegedly diverted into the private account of Indo Kaduna Marts JV Nigeria Limited during the administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
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Background of the Allegations
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) uncovered that the ₦1.37 billion was part of an ₦11 billion payment intended for a light rail project in Kaduna State. Investigations revealed that between December 2016 and January 2017, the El-Rufai administration approved the transfer of ₦11.1 billion to Indo Kaduna Marts JV Nigeria Limited’s account with Sterling Bank. Notably, this company was incorporated on May 10, 2017, months after the payments commenced.
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Court Proceedings and ICPC’s Motion
The ICPC, in its motion ex-parte before the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, detailed the alleged diversion and sought the interim forfeiture of the ₦1.37 billion traced to the company’s account. The commission highlighted that the funds, earmarked for the now-abandoned light rail project, were allegedly misappropriated, depriving Kaduna residents of the intended transportation infrastructure.
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Current Status and Implications
The court’s approval of the interim forfeiture allows the ICPC to temporarily seize the ₦1.37 billion pending further investigations and legal proceedings. This development underscores ongoing efforts to address alleged financial misconduct and recover public funds in Nigeria.
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The case highlights the importance of transparency and due process in governmental projects, especially those involving substantial public funds. As investigations proceed, more details are expected to emerge regarding the alleged diversion and the status of the light rail project.
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