Kaduna Court Denies Bail to El-Rufai Over Corruption Charges | Nigeria News Today
By Queen Madaki
The Kaduna State High Court has denied the bail application of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, ordering that he remain in custody pending the commencement of his trial.
The Bureau News reports that the ruling was delivered on Tuesday, April 21, by Justice Darius Khobo, who held that it was in the interest of justice to keep the former governor in custody to ensure his availability for trial.
Court Rejects Bail Application
El-Rufai is currently facing a nine-count charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), bordering on alleged conferment of benefits under false pretences and dishonest disposal of loan funds.
The former governor pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During proceedings, Justice Khobo noted that the bail application was supported by a 24-paragraph affidavit, which highlighted that the offences were non-capital and that El-Rufai had strong community ties.
The defence also argued that he voluntarily returned to Nigeria from Egypt and raised concerns about his health, claiming he required specialist medical attention.
ICPC Opposes Bail, Cites Flight Risk
However, the ICPC opposed the application, filing a counter-affidavit asserting that the alleged offences were economically significant and that there was a genuine risk of interference with witnesses and ongoing investigations.
The anti-graft agency further argued that El-Rufai could evade trial due to his high social standing and resources, describing him as a potential flight risk.
The ICPC also told the court that no medical evidence was presented to substantiate claims of ill health by the defendant.
Judge Cites Failure to Counter Affidavit
In his ruling, Justice Khobo stated that the defence failed to file a further affidavit to counter the prosecution’s claims, thereby leaving the allegations unchallenged.
He emphasised that the defendant’s high status could influence proceedings, describing it as a “double-edged sword” in the context of bail consideration.
The judge added that credible medical evidence was required to support claims of ill health, which was not provided in this case.
Trial Set for June
Consequently, the court refused the bail application and ordered that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody.
The court also directed that the trial be conducted expeditiously, with accelerated hearing where practicable.
The case has been adjourned to June 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2026, for the commencement of trial.
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