El-Rufai's Bail Denied Amid Financial Misconduct Trial

The Kaduna State High Court denied the bail application of former governor Nasir El-Rufai on the grounds of ongoing trial for alleged financial misconduct. Justice Dariu Khobo delivered the ruling on Tuesday, emphasizing the need to ensure El-Rufai's availability for trial.

El-Rufai faces nine counts related to allegations of conferring benefits through false pretenses and dishonest disposal of loan funds, to which he has pleaded not guilty. His bail application, supported by a 24-paragraph affidavit, argued that the offenses were non-capital and cited his strong community ties and voluntary return from Egypt.

However, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) opposed the bail, raising concerns about potential interference with ongoing investigations and stating that no medical evidence was provided to support El-Rufai's claims of health issues requiring specialist care. The court ruled that the prosecution's arguments justified the refusal of bail, and the trial is set to commence in the first week of June 2026, with the case adjourned to June 1-4, 2026.