A Department of State Services (DSS) forensic investigator, Segun Kayode, has accused former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and his associates of setting aside $600,000 to pay EFCC officials and intermediaries.
Kayode, the first prosecution witness, made the allegation on Tuesday at the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo before Justice Darius Khobo. He said $500,000 and $100,000 were earmarked for the payments.
He told the court that audio recordings captured conversations involving El-Rufai and suspected associates about efforts to frustrate an EFCC investigation into Singularity.
According to the witness, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), another person and Bashir El-Rufai were mentioned. He alleged that the SAN and the other individual were directed to meet Ahmadu Sule for a template previously used to liquidate another company.
Kayode said the plan was to apply a similar process to Singularity in Nigeria and Mauritius, where the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) was reportedly investigating the company. He also alleged that the recordings discussed stopping the EFCC from investigating a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
The hearing lasted nearly eight hours. El-Rufai’s lawyer, Paul Erokoro (SAN), challenged Kayode’s testimony because his name and evidence summary were missing from the prosecution’s documents. ICPC lawyer Ayodeji Adedipe (SAN) argued that the subpoenaed witness could testify.
Justice Khobo allowed the testimony, subject to cross-examination, and admitted Kayode’s findings as Exhibit One.
The court adjourned proceedings until November 30 and December 1, 2026.
El-Rufai attended under tight security with ADC governorship candidate Isah Ashiru. His appearance followed a court order.
The hearing came after the Court of Appeal upheld the denial of his bail on October 9. El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 18, 2026, over alleged financial misconduct during his 2015–2023 administration.
