DSS Detains El-Rufai; Bail Hearing Set for April 14

On Wednesday, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was detained by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) as he arrived at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. This occurred during proceedings for a bail application related to allegations of corruption.

The court has fixed April 14 for the hearing of the bail application. El-Rufai's defense counsel, Oluwol Iyamu, confirmed the court's decision and expressed hope for a favorable outcome.

The DSS's presence around the court fueled speculation regarding El-Rufai's detention, as security personnel restricted movement and denied journalists access to the courtroom. El-Rufai had previously been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court alongside Amadu Sule on charges including abuse of office and fraud.

The legal proceedings were complicated by the recusal of the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, on Tuesday, which led to an adjournment.

The defense team is preparing for related matters scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.