A Kaduna State High Court has rejected the bail application of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, citing the seriousness of the allegations against him and concerns that he could interfere with ongoing investigations.
The ruling was delivered on April 21, 2026, by Justice D.H. Khobo in a case filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
El-Rufai had approached the court through a motion dated March 25, 2026, seeking bail “either on self-recognisance or upon such liberal terms as the Court may deem fit,” arguing that the charges were not capital offences and should ordinarily allow for bail.
He maintained that he had strong community ties, known addresses, and significant assets, which he said ruled out any risk of fleeing. He also stated that he voluntarily returned from Egypt on February 16, 2026, to honour an invitation from anti-graft authorities, while describing the amended charge as “fundamentally defective” and “unintelligible.”
The former governor further cited health concerns, claiming he required specialised medical care.
However, the ICPC opposed the request through a counter-affidavit filed by Idris Abubakar, arguing that the charges were grave and “economically sabotaging.” The agency also contended that El-Rufai posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations involving other suspects.
It additionally alleged that he obstructed law enforcement officers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, 2026, and dismissed his medical claims due to lack of supporting evidence.
In his decision, Justice Khobo held that the weight of the nine-count charge and the risk of interference made bail inappropriate at this stage.
“In the instant application, given the gravity of the nine-count charge against the Defendant/Applicant, the Respondent’s credible apprehension regarding the interference with the ongoing investigations linked to other persons still at large… the interest of justice is best served by ensuring the Applicant remains available for an accelerated trial.”
He also rejected the health argument, stating, “The Applicant in my view has failed to provide sufficient medical evidence to justify the grant of bail on health grounds.”
The court therefore ruled: “Accordingly, the Defendant/Applicant’s application for bail pending trial fails and is hereby REFUSED.”
Justice Khobo ordered that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody pending trial and directed that proceedings be fast-tracked, fixing June 1–4, 2026, for consecutive hearings.
For now, the former governor remains in detention as the substantive trial is set to begin.
