The Federal High Court in Maitama has declined to hear former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai’s bail request, labelling the motion premature and adjourning the case to April 23, 2026.
Justice Joyce Obehi Abdulmalik delivered the ruling, emphasising that a formal arraignment must occur before any bail application can be considered.
A legal source present in court told reporters, “The court refused to entertain the bail request today, calling it immature.
“The matter has been rescheduled to the 23rd of April for proper arraignment.”
El-Rufai, currently held by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), did not attend Wednesday’s proceedings.
His continued detention remains in effect until the new court date.
Observers noted the presence of political figures, including African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Bolaji Abdullahi, who attended the session to monitor developments.
This decision adds another chapter to the ongoing legal challenges facing the former governor, as federal anti-corruption agencies intensify investigations into his administration.
Legal analysts suggest the adjournment may allow the prosecution to consolidate its case, potentially influencing the outcome of El-Rufai’s forthcoming arraignment.
