A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has adjourned proceedings in the case involving former governor Nasir El-Rufai to March 31, 2026, for the hearing of his bail application.
The adjournment followed Tuesday’s proceedings, during which both the prosecution and defence presented arguments on the bail request. Counsel to the defendant, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, stressing his client’s constitutional right to liberty and the necessity of adequate time to prepare his defence.
However, the prosecution opposed the application, arguing that the gravity of the charges could warrant continued detention. It further warned that granting bail might interfere with ongoing investigations into the matter.
El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations bordering on corruption and abuse of office. The charges include claims of financial misconduct during his tenure as governor.
According to a statement by the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Okor Odey, the charges—filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026—cover alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.
Security was visibly heightened across Kaduna metropolis, particularly around the court premises, ahead of the arraignment. Armed security personnel were deployed to strategic locations to maintain order as supporters and observers gathered. Despite the heightened public interest, journalists were denied access to the courtroom during the proceedings.
The former governor appeared in court alongside one Joel Adoga.
In a related development, the ICPC has also instituted a separate case against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule at the Kaduna State High Court. The case, marked KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26, involves allegations including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
The Commission disclosed that both cases were filed on March 18, 2026, as part of its broader anti-corruption drive. While proceedings have commenced at the Federal High Court, a hearing date for the Kaduna State High Court case is yet to be announced.
The ICPC confirmed that the former governor has been duly served with the charges and is expected to continue appearing before the courts as the cases progress.