The Federal High Court in Kaduna has adjourned the trial of Mr. Olajimi Shakiru Adebisi Lawal and three others to the 24th of September, 2025, after the case opened on Monday, the 21st of July.
Lawal, a former aide to ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, is facing charges from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for alleged fraudulent estacode payments and abuse of public office.
In an official statement released on Monday, the 28th of July, the ICPC confirmed that the trial began before Justice R.M. Aikawa involves public officers accused of manipulating travel allowances and mismanaging public funds during their time in government.
Three former senior officials Mrs Aisha Dikko Kalil, Mrs Bariyatu Yusuf, and Mr Samuel Aruwan have already testified.
Kalil, who served as Attorney-General from 2019 to 2023, told the court that her tuition fees were paid directly to institutions by the Kaduna State Government, while over ₦5 million in estacode allowances was paid into her personal bank account. She said she did not receive any money from Lawal.
Yusuf, the former Head of Service, said the Ministry of Finance covered her course fees and flights, and she received nearly ₦15 million in estacode payments. She confirmed she knew Lawal but denied collecting funds from him.
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Aruwan, who served as Commissioner for Security and Home Affairs, stated that his training was funded by the U.S. government and the Office of the National Security Adviser. He received no estacode funds from Lawal or the state.
ICPC prosecutor Dr. Osuobeni Ekoi Akpos attempted to submit Aruwan’s written statement to the commission. The defense objected, arguing it was obtained during the trial.
The court has adjourned to the 24th of September, to rule on the admissibility of the statement and resume proceedings.
The ICPC, in its statement, said the case reflects its ongoing commitment to holding public officials accountable and ensuring responsible use of public funds.