Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has pleaded not guilty to a five-count amended charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged national security breaches.

He was arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja after the court struck out an earlier three-count charge and accepted the amended version without objection from the defence.

The DSS said the amended charge was filed on April 13. El-Rufai’s counsel confirmed receipt and entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

The prosecution requested consecutive trial dates, but the defence objected, citing limitations linked to the defendant’s current custody arrangements and preparation concerns. A bail application filed in February was also mentioned, with the DSS indicating it did not oppose it.

A dispute also arose over a DSS request to conceal the identities of two witnesses for security reasons, which the defence opposed on constitutional grounds.

Both sides also disagreed on disclosure of proof of evidence and a defence move to quash the charge, which the prosecution said was procedurally premature.

The case was adjourned to May 18 for continuation of hearing.