A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna State has adjourned proceedings on the bail application of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to March 31, 2026.
The adjournment followed arguments presented on Tuesday by counsel to both the prosecution and the defence. During the hearing, defence counsel, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant his client bail, citing his constitutional rights and the need to adequately prepare for his defence.
The prosecution, however, opposed the application, contending that the charges against the former governor are grave and that releasing him on bail could interfere with ongoing investigations.
El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations bordering on corruption and abuse of office. The Commission accused him of financial misconduct during his tenure as governor.
Security was significantly heightened across the Kaduna State capital and around the court premises ahead of the arraignment. Armed personnel were stationed at key entry points to maintain law and order as supporters and observers gathered outside. Journalists were barred from entering the courtroom to witness the proceedings.
The former governor was arraigned alongside Joel Adoga before the Kaduna Federal High Court. According to a statement issued on Monday by the Commission’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Okor Odey, the arraignment followed charges filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026. The charges include alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.
In a related development, the ICPC filed a separate case against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule before the Kaduna State High Court in the Kaduna Judicial Division. The suit, marked KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26, contains allegations ranging from abuse of office and fraud to intent to commit fraud and conferring undue advantage.
The Commission stated that both cases were instituted on March 18, 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote accountability and combat corruption. While proceedings at the Federal High Court have commenced, a date for hearing at the State High Court is yet to be announced. The ICPC confirmed that the former governor has been duly served with the charges.
