The legal battle over the custody of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, intensified on Tuesday as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) formally opposed a fresh application seeking his release on bail.
At the resumed hearing before the Kaduna State High Court, defence counsel, Mr. Ubong Akpang, informed the court that a new bail application had been filed, stressing that the matter directly concerns the liberty of his client. He maintained that all required processes had been duly filed and served, adding that the defence was ready to proceed with the hearing.
However, counsel to the ICPC, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, told the court he had only just been served with the defendant’s further affidavit supporting the application and would need time to review the new filings. In light of this development, the presiding judge, Justice D.H. Khobo, adjourned proceedings to May 13, 2026, for the hearing of the fresh bail application.
The latest move by the defence follows an earlier ruling in which the court denied bail to El-Rufai, citing several concerns raised in the prosecution’s counter-affidavit. In that decision, Justice Khobo held that the former governor had failed to respond to new facts introduced by the ICPC, including allegations suggesting a risk of flight due to his influence and resources.
The court also referenced claims of obstruction of lawful arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, refusal to surrender travel documents and electronic devices for investigation, and the possibility of interference with witnesses and evidence. The judge further ruled that bail is discretionary and must align with the broader interests of justice, particularly in cases involving high-profile defendants.
Justice Khobo noted at the time that El-Rufai’s status could potentially hinder ongoing investigations, especially with some suspects still at large. The court also dismissed health-related claims made by the defence as unsubstantiated, ultimately ordering that the defendant remain in ICPC custody while directing an accelerated hearing of the substantive case.
Despite that setback, the defence team has renewed its push for bail, filing a fresh application in an effort to secure the former governor’s release. The ICPC has responded with a counter-affidavit opposing the request, reaffirming its position that the circumstances of the case do not warrant bail at this stage.
The anti-corruption agency reiterated its commitment to due process and the diligent prosecution of corruption-related offences, as the high-stakes case continues to draw public attention ahead of the next court date.
