By Ayomide Otitoju
A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna State on Tuesday adjourned proceedings on the bail application of former Nasir El-Rufai to March 31, 2026.
During the hearing, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, citing constitutional rights and the need for adequate time to prepare a defense. The prosecution, however, opposed the request, arguing that the seriousness of the charges could impede ongoing investigations.
El-Rufai was arraigned alongside Joel Adoga by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission over allegations of corruption and abuse of office during his tenure as Kaduna State governor. The charges, filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026, include conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.
Security was significantly heightened around the Kaduna State capital and court premises ahead of the arraignment, with armed personnel deployed at key points. Journalists were barred from entering the courtroom, while supporters and observers gathered outside.
In a related case, the ICPC has also filed charges against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule at the Kaduna State High Court, under case number KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26. Allegations include abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage. Both cases were instituted on March 18, 2026, as part of the commission’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
The date for the State High Court hearing has not yet been announced. The ICPC confirmed that the former governor has been duly served with all charges.
