Kaduna High Court Postpones Ruling on El-Rufai's Bail
A Kaduna State High Court has announced an adjournment of the bail ruling in the ongoing case against Malam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of the state. The ruling, initially scheduled for April 14, 2026, will now take place on April 21, 2026.
El-Rufai is contending with a total of nine amended charges that include allegations of fraud, abuse of office, and corruption. He arrived at the court around 9 p.m., escorted by operatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in a white Hilux vehicle.
After the brief court proceedings, which lasted under 30 minutes, the defendant's attorney, Ubong Akpan, spoke to reporters regarding the postponement. He stated:
- “The trial judge, Dariyus Khobo, was bereaved and unable to finalize the ruling.”
- “We understand that such circumstances can occur, hence the re-scheduled ruling is set for next Tuesday.”
Akpan also mentioned the possibility of further charges against El-Rufai, indicating that “the ICPC seems intent on breaking the charges into phases.” He referenced additional potential charges from various authorities, including Plant Quarantine, emphasizing that:
- “The ICPC might pursue more charges related to imports from Egypt.”
- “We are awaiting further legal actions from the Customary Court, the Native Court, and potentially other branches.”
- “It appears everyone is keen on making headlines featuring El-Rufai.”
As proceedings continue, the former governor remains at the Federal High Court for the ongoing discussions surrounding his bail application.