A Kaduna State High Court has rejected the bail plea submitted by the former state governor, Nasir El-Rufai, mandating that he stay detained by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). On Monday, Justice Dirisu Khobo stated that the request lacked merit, noting that the former governor did not provide adequate evidence to persuade the court to exercise its discretion in his favor.
The court determined that the defense did not submit compelling documentation or demonstrate any unique circumstances that would justify a release during the active trial. While the bail was denied, the judge instructed the ICPC to ensure that El-Rufai maintains full access to his chosen medical personnel and local healthcare facilities while under their supervision. The proceedings were postponed until July 7 and 8.
El-Rufai is currently answering to a nine-count indictment related to allegations of official misconduct. The case initially began on March 18, 2026, naming both El-Rufai and Amadu Sule, the head of TMDK Terminal Limited. The ICPC later modified the legal filings to remove Sule, making El-Rufai the only individual facing charges of fraud and misuse of office.
