Kaduna Court Denies Bail to Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Orders Continued ICPC Detention

Kaduna Court Denies Bail to Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Orders Continued ICPC Detention

A Kaduna State High Court has denied the bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, , ordering that he remain in the custody of the (ICPC) pending the continuation of his trial.

The ruling was delivered on Monday by Justice Dirisu Khobo, who held that El-Rufai's request for bail lacked sufficient merit to justify his release.

Court Says Bail Application Lacked Merit

In his ruling, Justice Khobo stated that the former governor failed to present credible and convincing evidence that would persuade the court to exercise its discretion in granting bail.

According to the judge, the defence did not submit reliable documents or compelling materials to support the application. The court also ruled that El-Rufai failed to establish any exceptional circumstances that would warrant his release while the criminal proceedings continue.

As a result, the court dismissed the bail application and directed that the former governor remain in ICPC custody.

Court Approves Medical Access While in Custody

Although the court denied bail, it ordered the ICPC to grant El-Rufai unrestricted access to his personal medical team or any medical facility of his choice within Nigeria whenever medical attention becomes necessary.

The ruling is aimed at ensuring that the former governor receives adequate healthcare while remaining in detention.

Hearing Resumes July 7 and 8

Following the decision, Justice Khobo adjourned the matter until July 7 and July 8, 2026, for the continuation of the trial.

Legal observers expect the upcoming hearings to focus on the presentation of evidence and witness testimonies as the high-profile corruption case progresses.

El-Rufai Faces Nine Criminal Charges

El-Rufai is currently facing a nine-count charge bordering on alleged abuse of office and other related offences.

The former Kaduna governor was first arraigned on March 18, 2026, alongside the Managing Director of TMDK Terminal Limited, Amadu Sule.

The ICPC had initially filed a 10-count charge against both defendants, accusing them of alleged abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.

However, the anti-corruption agency later amended the charges and withdrew Amadu Sule from the case, leaving El-Rufai as the sole defendant facing prosecution.

Case Draws National Attention

The ongoing prosecution of Nasir El-Rufai has become one of Nigeria's most closely watched legal proceedings involving a former state governor. The outcome of the trial is expected to have significant political and legal implications as the ICPC continues its anti-corruption campaign.

With the bail application now rejected, El-Rufai will remain in ICPC custody until the case resumes before the Kaduna State High Court on July 7 and 8, 2026.