By Anthony Otaru
A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has postponed ruling on the bail application of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, until March 31, 2026.
The decision followed Tuesday’s proceedings, where both the prosecution and defence presented arguments for and against the application.
Counsel to the defendant, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, stressing that it was a constitutional entitlement.
“The defendant deserves bail and requires adequate liberty to prepare his defence,” he said.
The prosecution, however, opposed the request, arguing that the nature of the allegations warranted caution.
“The charges are serious, and granting bail at this stage may interfere with ongoing investigations,” the prosecutor told the court.
el-Rufai is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for corruption and abuse of office during his time as governor.
The Commission accused him of financial misconduct, including unlawful handling of public resources while in office.
Ahead of the arraignment, security was significantly reinforced around the Kaduna metropolis and the court premises, with armed personnel deployed to maintain order as supporters and observers gathered.
Despite the heightened public interest, journalists were denied access to the courtroom during the proceedings.
el-Rufai was arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga before the Federal High Court.
In a statement, the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Okor Odey, said 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 also disclosed a separate case filed against El-Rufai and one Amadu Sule before the Kaduna State High Court.
“The charges include abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage,” the statement read.
According to the ICPC, both matters were instituted on March 18, 2026, as part of its ongoing anti-corruption drive.
While proceedings have begun at the Federal High Court, the date for the State High Court hearing has yet to be fixed.
“The defendant has been duly served with the charges,” the Commission added.
