A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna State has adjourned the bail application of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to March 31, 2026.
The decision followed proceedings held on Tuesday, during which both the prosecution and defence teams presented their arguments before the court. Counsel to El-Rufai, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, stressing his client’s constitutional right to liberty and the necessity of adequate time and conditions to prepare his defence.
However, the prosecution opposed the request, arguing that the charges brought against the former governor are grave in nature. It maintained that granting bail at this stage could potentially interfere with ongoing investigations and compromise the integrity of the case.
El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) alongside one Joel Adoga. The charges reportedly include allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and financial misconduct linked to his time in office as governor of Kaduna State.
Security presence around the court premises was significantly increased ahead of the arraignment. Armed personnel were deployed to strategic points, particularly at entry gates, to maintain order as supporters, observers, and members of the public gathered outside the venue.
In a move that drew attention, journalists were denied access to the courtroom and were unable to witness the proceedings firsthand, raising concerns about transparency in the high-profile case.
The matter has been adjourned to allow the court to further consider submissions from both parties before delivering a ruling on the bail application. The outcome is expected to attract significant public and legal interest, given El-Rufai’s prominence in Nigeria’s political landscape.
