Justice Rilwanu Aikawa of the Federal High Court in Kaduna, on Wednesday, fixed April 14, 2026 for his ruling on the bail application of the former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The judge fixed the date after the conclusion of arguments from the lawyer to El-Rufai and the prosecuting Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
The ICPC had arraigned El-Rufai on a 10-count charge, following his alleged involvement in conversion of public property and money laundering. But El-Rufai has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
In his argument over the bail application, lawyer to El-Rufai had informed the court that his client is entitled to bail in order to prepare for his defence.
The lawyer added the former governor will be available for trial if granted bail, saying that El-Rufai, having served as state governor for eight years, he is ready to defend himself.
But the lawyer to the ICPC had argued that the former governor is a flight risk, saying that El-Rufai will tamper with witnesses if granted bail.
The ICPC’s lawyer also argued that the allegations against El-Rufai are weighty and therefore, should not be granted bail, saying that if the court is willing to grant bail to the former governor, he should be compelled to attend his trial.
It was after the conclusion of arguments by the parties that the judge fixed April 14 for his ruling.
The court further directed that El-Rufai should remain in ICPC custody until the next adjourned date.
The former governor arrived at the courthouse at about 9am, riding in a black Hilux and accompanied by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS). Dressed in a light brown riga and cap, he appeared composed as he entered the courtroom.
