El-Rufai Detained as Court Adjourns Bail Ruling to April 14

By Ekanem Asuquo 

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was on Wednesday taken into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.

El-Rufai, who is currently facing trial over alleged corruption, had just concluded a hearing on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission when DSS operatives whisked him away. He was reportedly placed in a waiting vehicle and driven off, with sources indicating that he was headed to Abuja.

There had been heightened security presence around the court ahead of the sitting, raising speculation that the former governor might be arrested. Security operatives were also seen positioning vehicles strategically around the court premises before proceedings commenced.

El-Rufai arrived at the court at about 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, drawing the attention of security personnel and onlookers.

Speaking with journalists after the hearing, the lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (Senior Advocate of Nigeria), confirmed that the court had adjourned ruling on the bail application to April 14.

According to him, both parties presented and responded to arguments during the session, and the court would deliver its decision on the scheduled date. He expressed optimism about the outcome, noting that the defence had placed its submissions before the court.

Iyamu also clarified that the defence team is prepared for another related case scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a separate matter. He said the legal team had filed all necessary processes and would appear in court as required.

He added that the matter involving the Department of State Services is distinct and will be treated accordingly.