The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has adjourned till April 14 for ruling on the bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
El-Rufai is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on a 10-count charge bordering on allegations of corruption.
Speaking with journalists shortly after Wednesday’s proceedings, lead counsel to the former governor, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), said arguments on the bail application had been concluded and the court had reserved ruling on the matter.
After concluding the hearing of his bail application, El-Rufai was taken into custody and driven away in a waiting vehicle, reportedly heading to Abuja.
Heavy Security Presence Sparks Speculation
A heavy security presence around the court premises ahead of the sitting had earlier fuelled speculation over possible arrest of the former governor.
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El-Rufai arrived at the court at about 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, drawing attention from security operatives and court observers.
Court Adjourns Bail Ruling To April 14
Speaking to journalists after the proceedings, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court fixed April 14 for ruling on the bail application.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14,” Iyamu said.
He expressed optimism about the outcome, noting that the defence had already presented its arguments before the court.
“We look forward to that day. We are hopeful. We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice. We await the decision of the court,” he added.
Defence Prepares For Separate Abuja Case
Iyamu also said the defence team is ready for another matter scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a separate case involving the Department of State Services (DSS).
“That is a separate matter. As lawyers, we are ready. We have filed all necessary processes and will be in court,” he said.
The proceedings followed Tuesday’s hearing, during which arguments over a motion seeking the presiding judge, Justice Rilwan M. Aikawa, to recuse himself briefly disrupted proceedings before the application was withdrawn.
Separate Charges At Kaduna State High Court
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside Amadu Sule on charges bordering on abuse of office, fraud, and conferment of undue advantage.
Those charges are separate from the Federal High Court case in Kaduna.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
