Court CTC Details Why El-rufai’s Bail Application Was Denied

KADUNA, NIGERIA — The Kaduna State High Court has rejected the bail application filed by the former governor of the state, Nasir el-Rufai, ordering his continued remand in the custody of the anti-graft agency.

Presiding Judge Darius Khobo ruled on Tuesday, April 21, that the interest of justice necessitates the former governor remaining in custody to ensure his availability for his upcoming trial. The decision follows el-Rufai’s arraignment by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on a nine-count charge involving alleged dishonest disposal of loan funds.

While el-Rufai pleaded not guilty to the charges, the court found the prosecution’s arguments regarding the risk of witness interference compelling. Justice Khobo noted that the ICPC’s concerns about the defendant potentially sabotaging ongoing investigations into other suspects still at large were “weighty considerations.”

In the certified true copy of the ruling reviewed by NaijaChoice News, the court highlighted a procedural lapse by the defense team. The judge observed that el-Rufai’s counsel failed to file a further affidavit to challenge specific allegations made by the ICPC, including claims that the former governor had obstructed law enforcement at the Abuja airport in February.

Addressing the defendant’s plea for bail on health grounds, the court held that no verifiable medical evidence was provided to support the claim. Justice Khobo maintained that in cases where ill-health is cited, credible evidence from the relevant medical branch must be presented to the court.

The judge further remarked that el-Rufai’s prominent status as a former minister and governor served as a “double-edged sword” in the bail consideration. He reasoned that the defendant’s high standing in society could provide the means to evade trial, aligning with the ICPC’s description of the politician as a flight risk.

The defense, led by Ubong Akpan, had earlier argued that the offences were non-capital and emphasized el-Rufai’s voluntary return from Egypt to face the charges. However, ICPC counsel Osuobeni Akponimisingha successfully urged the court to prioritize the severity of the alleged economic crimes.

Following the denial of bail, the court ordered an accelerated hearing to ensure a swift judicial process. Both legal teams have agreed to a commencement date in the first week of June.

The matter has been adjourned to June 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2026, for the start of the trial.

This ruling marks a significant development in the high-profile prosecution, signaling a rigorous judicial approach to accountability for former top-ranking public officials in Nigeria.