Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed April 23 for the arraignment of former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, in the cybercrimes and breach of Communications Act charges brought against him by the Federal Government
The Federal Government’s bid to arraign El-Rufai today could not proceed due to his absence.
El-Rufai, who was to be docked for his plea of guilty or not guilty over his alleged complicity in cybercrimes, breach of Communications Act, was not in court when the FG’s case against him was called. 
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Oluwole Aladedoye SAN, standing for the Department of State Security (DSS), informed the court that the former governor was still with the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) for investigation into matters.
He said that DSS has no control over the sister agency and requested an adjournment to March 23.
Mr Oluwole Iyamu did not oppose adjournment but vehemently demanded bail for the former governor.
He cited several authorities in support of the bail request.
The FG lawyer, however, vehemently opposed the bail request on the ground that it was premature, adding that the issue of bail can only be raised after the formal arraignment.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, after taking the argument,s declined to grant the bail request, adding that her court was not yet seized of the matter.
The judge agreed that El-Rufai can apply for bail only after arraignment.
Meanwhile, the Judge has fixed April 23 for the arraignment.
Guardian
