By Abiola Olawale
A Federal High Court in Kaduna has deferred the bail hearing for the former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, until Wednesday, March 31, 2026.
The decision follows his arraignment on Tuesday over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office.
El-Rufai, who has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) since February, is facing a 10-count charge.
The allegations include the alleged illegal movement of state funds, diverting government assets for personal use, and misusing executive powers during his eight-year tenure.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Ukpon Akpan, moved for his client’s immediate release on bail. Akpan argued that the former governor is entitled to liberty under the Nigerian Constitution and requires adequate time to prepare a robust defense.
However, the ICPC prosecution team opposed the application. They cited the “gravity of the charges” and expressed concerns that granting bail at this stage might interfere with ongoing investigations. After listening to both arguments, the presiding judge adjourned the matter to Wednesday to rule on the application.
The adjournment followed proceedings that took place under tight security, reflecting heightened public interest in the high-profile corruption trial.
Counsel for the ex-governor, Ukpong Akpan, confirmed the development shortly after the session but declined to give details.
“I’m sorry, I can’t talk now, we are in the middle of work. I have to go and file responses. The hearing of the bail application has been adjourned till tomorrow,” he said.
Shortly after the court rose, El-Rufai was escorted out of the premises by operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission in a white Hilux vehicle.
