Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has been granted bail by a Federal High Court in Kaduna, ending nearly two months in detention over corruption-related charges.
Delivering the ruling on Tuesday, Justice Rilwan Aikawa approved the bail application after hearing submissions from both defence and prosecution. However, the court ordered that El-Rufai remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) pending the fulfilment of stringent bail conditions.
El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), had argued that bail is a constitutional right, stressing that his client poses no flight risk due to his strong ties within the country. The prosecution opposed the request, citing fears that the former governor could interfere with witnesses or ongoing investigations.
Strict Bail Terms
The court imposed tough conditions, including a ₦200 million bond with two sureties in like sum. One surety must be a recognised traditional ruler, while the other must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15. Additional requirements include submission of landed property documents, surrender of international passports, and restrictions on public commentary regarding the case.
A family member, Bello El-Rufai, told journalists that efforts were underway to meet the conditions, expressing optimism despite their complexity.
Legal Battle Deepens
The ICPC had filed a 10-count charge against El-Rufai on March 18, bordering on alleged conversion of public property, money laundering, and abuse of office.
His legal troubles began on February 16 following his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Although initially granted bail, he was re-arrested by the ICPC and remained in custody for weeks. He was briefly released on compassionate grounds after the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, in Cairo, before being returned to custody after her burial.
Proceedings were further complicated by a now-withdrawn application by the defence asking Justice Aikawa to recuse himself over alleged bias.
State Court Adjourns Bail Ruling
Meanwhile, a separate case at the Kaduna State High Court took a different turn, as Justice Darius Khobo adjourned ruling on El-Rufai’s bail application to April 21, 2026.
The adjournment followed the filing of an amended nine-count charge by the ICPC, which reshaped the case and dropped a co-defendant. Defence counsel Ubong Akpan explained that additional time was needed to review the new charges, while also noting that the judge’s bereavement contributed to the delay.
El-Rufai is facing separate allegations at the state level, including abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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