- Nasir El-Rufai had his bail hearing adjourned by the court to June 2026
- The defence had criticised the delay, describing it as politically motivated
- The court had postponed its earlier scheduled ruling despite hearing arguments from both parties
The Kaduna State High Court has adjourned the bail hearing of former governor Nasir El-Rufai to the first week of June 2026, prolonging proceedings in a case that has drawn significant political and public attention.
Presiding over the matter, Justice Darius Khobo announced the new date on Tuesday following court proceedings in which the former governor is facing multiple charges bordering on alleged financial crimes and abuse of office. The charges were brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
According to reports, El-Rufai appeared in court under tight security, arriving at approximately 9 a.m. in a convoy accompanied by operatives of the ICPC and the Department of State Services (DSS). Security presence around the court premises was significantly heightened, with movement restricted as proceedings took place.
Supporters of the former governor gathered outside the courtroom, reflecting the growing public interest in the case, which has become a focal point in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Speaking after the session, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ukpon Akpan, criticised the repeated adjournments of the bail hearing, describing the development as “politically motivated”. The defence argued that delays in ruling on the bail application were unjustified and raised concerns about fairness in the judicial process.
The case had earlier been scheduled for a ruling on 21 April 2026 after arguments from both parties were heard. However, the court opted to defer its decision, setting a new date in June for the bail determination.
The adjournment comes amid previous claims by El-Rufai alleging a “fresh plot” to implicate him in criminal activities and hinder his release. He has also raised concerns about what he termed “malicious orchestrations” aimed at prolonging his detention.
The former governor further referenced an incident on 12 February 2026, when he claimed there were plans to arrest him upon his arrival at Abuja airport from Cairo. According to him, the episode marked the beginning of what he described as a troubling pattern of actions against him.
Legal observers note that the outcome of the bail application could have broader implications for the case, particularly as it relates to the pace of proceedings and the rights of the accused.
The court is expected to deliver its ruling on the bail application in the first week of June 2026.