Kaduna, Nigeria – The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna, Kaduna State has postponed the hearing of the bail application filed by former governor Nasir El-Rufai to March 31, 2026, following arguments presented by both legal teams during Tuesday’s proceedings.
During the session, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, stressing his client’s constitutional rights and the need for adequate time to prepare his defence. However, the prosecution opposed the request, arguing that the allegations are serious and that releasing him could interfere with ongoing investigations.
Okay News reports that the former governor is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and financial misconduct during his time in office. He was arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga before the Federal High Court.
Security was significantly tightened around the court premises ahead of the arraignment, with armed personnel deployed across key locations in the state capital. Supporters and observers gathered outside the court, while journalists were reportedly denied access to the courtroom during proceedings.
According to the anti-corruption agency, the charges—filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026—include alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering. The Commission stated that the case forms part of its broader efforts to enforce accountability and tackle corruption in public office.
In a related development, the ICPC has also filed a separate case against El-Rufai and another individual, Amadu Sule, before the Kaduna State High Court. The charges in that case include abuse of office, fraud, and alleged intent to commit fraud, although a hearing date is yet to be announced.
