From left:Nasir El-Rufai with his Lawyers
BY SUNDAY SAMUEL—The Kaduna State High Court on Tuesday denied to grant bail to former governor Nasir El-Rufai, stating that his influence might allow him to obstruct ongoing probes.
According to Justice Darius Khobo, the accusations of financial misconduct are serious enough to warrant keeping him in custody.
He stated that his lawyers will promptly contest the ruling by submitting the required legal documents.
The defence team further claims the charges are driven by political motives, arguing that the trial reflects that intention.
This development follows a previous decision by the Federal High Court in Kaduna, which had approved bail for El-Rufai under strict conditions, subject to meeting those requirements.
Nasir El-Rufai, is facing multiple charges in 2026, primarily involving alleged money laundering, financial crimes, and abuse of office. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) arraigned him on a nine-count charge, including allegations of diverting public funds and receiving proceeds of corruption amounting to over N579 million and $1.1 million.
