Kaduna Court Denies El-Rufai Bail Application

On April 21, 2026, the Kaduna State High Court, presided over by Justice D.H. Khobo, denied the bail application of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

The application was filed on March 25, 2026, seeking bail either on self-recognition or under terms deemed fit by the court. El-Rufai faced serious allegations related to interference with investigations conducted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The court noted that the gravity of the nine-count charge against him, which includes allegations of economic sabotage, outweighed the grounds for his release. The ICPC opposed the bail application, arguing that El-Rufai posed a flight risk and could interfere with ongoing investigations.

The court also dismissed health claims made by El-Rufai, stating that insufficient medical evidence was provided to justify bail on health grounds. Consequently, El-Rufai will remain in custody pending trial, which is scheduled for June 1-4, 2026.