The ICPC has filed a counter-affidavit opposing a new bail request from Kaduna's former governor. Mallam Nasir El-Rufai submitted the fresh application before Kaduna State High Court.
At Tuesday's hearing, El-Rufai's lawyer, Ubong Akpang, told the court about the pending bail request. He stressed the matter concerns his client's personal liberty and freedom.
Akpang noted that all required documents had been properly filed and served on time. He said his team stood ready to proceed with arguments immediately.
But ICPC counsel Ibrahim Mukhtar raised an objection on the spot. He'd only just received the defendant's supporting affidavit and needed time to review it carefully.
Justice D.H. Khobo adjourned the hearing to May 13, 2026.
That's when arguments on the bail application will take place.
This isn't El-Rufai's first attempt at securing release. The same judge had already rejected an earlier bail application months ago.
In that earlier ruling, Justice Khobo found El-Rufai hadn't filed documents challenging the ICPC's response. The anti-corruption agency had raised several serious concerns in its counter-affidavit.
Those concerns included El-Rufai's likely ability to flee the country given his wealth and connections. Authorities also cited an alleged obstruction of his arrest at Abuja's airport.
The ICPC further claimed he refused to hand over his travel documents for investigation. Officials worried he might intimidate witnesses or tamper with evidence.
Justice Khobo emphasized that bail remains discretionary under Nigerian law. The court must always consider whether granting it serves justice properly.
His position was blunt: El-Rufai's prominent status could help him interfere with investigations. Several other suspects in the case remain at large, he noted.
The judge also observed that El-Rufai never properly challenged the main allegations against him. By not responding, the court deemed those allegations admitted.
He dismissed health-related claims for bail as unsubstantiated and lacking proof. The court therefore ordered El-Rufai to remain in ICPC custody pending trial.
Despite that rejection, his defense team filed another bail application anyway. The ICPC promptly submitted its opposition to this fresh request.
An ICPC spokesperson said the agency remains committed to pursuing the case thoroughly. The commission will uphold due process while ensuring justice is served, they added.
