Court Fixes April 14 for Bail Ruling as El-Rufai Remains in Custody
A Federal High Court in Kaduna has scheduled April 14, 2026, to deliver its ruling on the bail application filed by former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who is currently facing allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office.
During Wednesday’s proceedings, both the defence and prosecution presented their final submissions on the bail request. Counsel to the former governor, Iyamu Oyewole, argued that bail is a fundamental constitutional right and maintained that his client has strong roots in Nigeria, making any risk of absconding unlikely.
However, the prosecution opposed the application, expressing concerns that El-Rufai could interfere with witnesses or hinder ongoing investigations if granted bail.
Presiding over the matter, Rilwan Aikawa adjourned the case, announcing that a decision on the bail application would be delivered on April 14, 2026.
Until then, El-Rufai will remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory arrived at the court around 9 a.m. under tight security, with heightened presence of security operatives around the premises amid expectations of large public interest.
The case continues as legal proceedings unfold over the allegations brought against him by the anti-corruption agency.
