Kaduna, NIGERIA — Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court has adjourned the bail hearing of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, to the first week of June 2026. The decision was announced during court proceedings on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
El-Rufai is currently facing a nine-count amended charge brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Okay News reports that the charges involve allegations of abuse of office and financial misconduct, including the unauthorized release of ₦11 billion in state funds and the improper approval of ₦289.8 million in severance allowances.
The former governor arrived at the court at approximately 9:00 AM under heavy security, accompanied by officials from the ICPC and the Department of State Services (DSS). Following the session, the defense counsel, Ukpon Akpan, expressed strong opposition to the long adjournment, suggesting the delay in the bail ruling is “politically motivated.”
The Kaduna State High Court had previously rescheduled the ruling from April 14 to today, but the further extension to June means El-Rufai will remain in custody for several more weeks. While he was granted a separate bail by a Federal High Court earlier this month, his release is contingent upon securing bail in all pending matters, including the current state high court case.
Security agencies maintained a strict cordon around the court vicinity on Tuesday as supporters gathered to witness the proceedings. The ICPC has not issued a fresh statement following the adjournment, but it continues to maintain that the former governor’s detention is necessary for the integrity of the ongoing trial.
