Court defers ruling on El-Rufai’s bail as legal battle deepens

A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has adjourned the bail application of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to March 31, prolonging a high-profile legal battle tied to corruption allegations.

El-Rufai was arraigned on Tuesday on charges bordering on the alleged conversion of public property and money laundering, brought against him by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The former governor arrived at the court premises at about 9:00 a.m. under heavy security escort. He remained in a vehicle for about 25 minutes before being led into the courtroom, where security had already been heightened in anticipation of the proceedings.

During the hearing, his counsel, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail, arguing that his client is entitled to liberty under the Constitution and requires adequate time to prepare his defence.

However, the prosecution opposed the application, maintaining that releasing the defendant at this stage could interfere with ongoing investigations by the commission.

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Presiding over the matter, the judge adjourned proceedings to March 31 to rule on the bail application.

El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 19, following his release by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His continued detention has sparked mixed reactions, with some stakeholders calling for his release, while others insist on due judicial process.

Reports indicate that while in custody, the former governor declined to answer investigators’ questions, invoking his right to remain silent.

Earlier, on March 5, a magistrate’s court extended his remand by an additional 14 days. El-Rufai has also approached a Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging both the search conducted on his residence by the ICPC and the legality of the initial remand order.

The case continues to draw national attention as its legal and political implications unfold.