A Federal High Court in Kaduna State has postponed ruling on the bail application of former governor Nasir El-Rufai to March 31, 2026.
The adjournment followed Tuesday’s proceedings, where both prosecution and defence teams presented their arguments. Defence counsel, Ukpon Akpan, appealed for bail on constitutional grounds, stressing the need for adequate time to prepare his client’s case. The prosecution, however, opposed the request, maintaining that the gravity of the allegations could affect ongoing investigations if bail is granted.
El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission over claims of corruption and abuse of office linked to his tenure. The agency accused him of financial misconduct, including alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.
Security was visibly tightened across Kaduna, especially around the court परिसर, with armed personnel deployed at strategic points as supporters and observers gathered. Journalists were denied access to the courtroom during the session.
The former governor appeared alongside Joel Adoga before the Federal High Court, in a case filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026, according to a statement by the Commission’s spokesperson, John Okor Odey.
In a separate development, the anti-graft agency has also instituted another case against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule at the Kaduna State High Court, under case number KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26. The charges include fraud, abuse of office, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Both cases were filed on March 18, 2026, as part of broader efforts to enforce accountability. While the Federal High Court matter has been heard, a date for proceedings at the State High Court is yet to be announced. The Commission confirmed that El-Rufai has been properly served with all charges.
