El-Rufai's bail bid - Latest

ICPC Opposes El-Rufai’s Fresh Bail Bid as Kaduna Court Sets May 13 Hearing

KADUNA, Nigeria— The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a counter-affidavit opposing a fresh bail application by former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, as the Kaduna State High Court adjourned the matter to May 13, 2026.

At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, counsel for El-Rufai, Mr. Ubong Akpang, told the court that a new bail application had been filed and was ready for hearing, stressing that it concerns the defendant’s liberty. All supporting processes had been served, he said.

ICPC counsel, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, however, informed the court that he had only just received the defendant’s further affidavit in support of the application and requested time to review the new filings. The presiding judge, Honourable Justice D.H. Khobo, granted the request and adjourned the hearing to May 13.

The court had previously denied El-Rufai bail in an earlier application. Justice Khobo ruled at the time that the defence had not filed a further affidavit to challenge the ICPC’s counter-affidavit, which raised several new points. These included allegations of a flight risk due to the defendant’s influence and resources, claims of obstruction of a lawful arrest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, refusal to surrender travel documents and devices for investigation, and concerns over possible interference with witnesses and evidence.

In that ruling, the court noted that bail is discretionary and must serve the interests of justice. Justice Khobo held that El-Rufai’s high-profile status could allow interference with ongoing investigations, particularly as some suspects remain at large. The court also found that the defendant had failed to challenge key allegations in the prosecution’s counter-affidavit, which it deemed admitted, and dismissed unsubstantiated health claims for lack of evidence.

Consequently, the court refused bail and ordered that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody pending the commencement of trial, while directing an accelerated hearing of the case. Despite the ruling, the defence team has now filed a fresh bail application.

The ICPC said it has submitted its response opposing the latest request and reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing the case in line with due process. The commission also assured the public of its continued dedication to the diligent prosecution of corruption cases.

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