Federal High Court Adjourns Nasir El-Rufai’s Bail Hearing to April 14 Amid ICPC Charges

A Federal High Court in Kaduna has postponed the hearing of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s bail application to April 14, following arguments from both defence and prosecution.

Presiding Judge Rilwanu Aikawa set the new date on Wednesday after carefully considering submissions from both sides. The court also ordered that El-Rufai remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) until the next hearing.

El-Rufai faces a 10-count charge filed by the ICPC, including allegations of conversion of public property and money laundering. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The former governor arrived at the court around 9:00 a.m., accompanied by DSS officials, in a black Hilux. Dressed in a light brown riga and cap, he appeared calm as he entered the courtroom.

Speaking to journalists after the proceedings, Ubong Akpan (SAN), one of El-Rufai’s lawyers, confirmed the adjournment, adding that the lead counsel would provide further comments later.

The case continues to draw national attention, with observers closely monitoring developments in one of Nigeria’s high-profile corruption trials.