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A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna State has adjourned proceedings on the bail application of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai until 31 March 2026.
The decision followed Tuesday’s hearing, during which both the prosecution and defence presented their legal arguments.
At the session, counsel to the defendant, Ukpon Akpan, appealed to the court to grant his client bail, citing constitutional rights and the necessity for the former governor to adequately prepare his defence.
However, the prosecution opposed the request, contending that the charges against El-Rufai are serious and that granting bail could hinder ongoing investigations.
The former Kaduna State governor was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations of corruption and abuse of office.
The Commission filed charges accusing El-Rufai of financial misconduct during his tenure in office.
Ahead of the arraignment on Tuesday, security was significantly tightened across Kaduna, particularly around the court premises, with armed personnel deployed at key access points to prevent any breach of law and order, as supporters and observers gathered outside.
Meanwhile, journalists were denied access to the courtroom to observe the proceedings.
El-Rufai was arraigned alongside one Joel Adoga before the Kaduna Federal High Court.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Commission’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Okor Odey, the arraignment followed charges filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026. The allegations include conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.
In a related development, the ICPC has also instituted a separate case against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule before the Kaduna State High Court in the Kaduna Judicial Division. The case, marked KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26, involves allegations ranging from abuse of office and fraud to intent to commit fraud and conferring undue advantage.
The Commission disclosed that both cases were filed on 18 March 2026 as part of its ongoing efforts to promote accountability and tackle corruption.
While the arraignment at the Federal High Court is scheduled for Tuesday, the hearing date for the case before the State High Court has yet to be announced and will be communicated in due course.
The ICPC further confirmed that the former governor has been properly served with the charges.
