El-Rufai Granted Bail After Weeks in Custody, Court Adjourns to April 21

By Chisom Adaeze

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has been granted bail by a Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna, marking a significant development in his ongoing legal battle after nearly two months in detention.

Delivering the ruling on Tuesday, Justice Rilwan Aikawa approved the bail application following submissions from both the defence and prosecution. However, the court directed that El-Rufai remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) pending the fulfilment of the stringent bail conditions.

Legal Battle and Bail Conditions

El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), had argued that bail is a constitutional right, stressing that the former governor has strong ties within Nigeria and poses no flight risk.

The prosecution, however, opposed the request, raising concerns that he could interfere with witnesses or obstruct ongoing investigations if released.

In its ruling, the court imposed strict bail conditions, including:

• A ₦200 million bond
• Two sureties in like sum, including a recognised traditional ruler and a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15
• Submission of landed property documents
• Surrender of international passports
• Restrictions on public commentary regarding the case

A family member, Bello El-Rufai, confirmed that efforts were underway to meet the conditions, noting that they are extensive but achievable.

Charges and Arrest Timeline

The ICPC had filed a 10-count charge against El-Rufai on March 18, bordering on allegations of money laundering, abuse of office, and unlawful possession of public property.

His legal troubles began earlier on February 16, when he was initially arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Although he was granted bail at the time, he was subsequently re-arrested by the ICPC, leading to a prolonged period in custody.

On March 27, the anti-corruption agency granted him temporary release on compassionate grounds following the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, in Cairo, Egypt. He was returned to custody shortly after her burial.

Proceedings also witnessed a brief controversy when the defence sought the recusal of Justice Aikawa over alleged bias, a motion that was later withdrawn, allowing the trial to proceed.

Separate Case Adjourned

In a related development, a separate case before the Kaduna State High Court experienced a delay. Presiding judge, Justice Darius Khobo, adjourned ruling on El-Rufai’s bail application in that matter to April 21, 2026.

The adjournment followed the service of an amended nine-count charge by the ICPC, which altered the scope of the case and dropped a co-defendant, Amadu Sule.

Defence counsel, Ubong Akpan, explained that the team required time to review the amended charges. He also cited the bereavement of the presiding judge as a factor in the delay.

Despite the setback, the defence expressed optimism ahead of the next hearing.

Heavy Security, High Stakes

El-Rufai is facing multiple charges at both federal and state levels, including allegations of fraud, intent to commit fraud, abuse of office, and conferring undue advantage.

The high-profile nature of the case was reflected in the heavy security presence at the court premises, with armed operatives deployed to maintain order and restrict movement.

A Defining Legal Moment

The bail ruling represents a crucial moment in El-Rufai’s legal journey, but the broader case remains far from resolved. With multiple charges, ongoing investigations, and parallel court proceedings, the coming weeks—particularly the April 21 hearing—are expected to shape the trajectory of one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political trials.