ICPC Opposes Fresh Bail Bid as Court Adjourns El-Rufai Case

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has opposed a fresh bail application filed by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as proceedings continued before the Kaduna State High Court.

At Tuesday’s hearing, defence counsel, Mr Ubong Akpang, told the court that a new bail application had been filed, stressing that it concerned his client’s fundamental right to liberty and that all required processes had been duly submitted.

However, counsel to the ICPC, Mr Ibrahim Mukhtar, said he had only just been served with additional documents supporting the application and requested more time to review them.

The presiding judge, Justice D.H. Khobo, subsequently adjourned the matter until 13 May 2026 for the hearing of the bail application.

The court had earlier refused bail to Mr El-Rufai, citing the absence of a further affidavit challenging the prosecution’s claims. These included concerns about a potential flight risk, alleged obstruction of arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, refusal to surrender travel documents, and the possibility of interference with witnesses and evidence.

Justice Khobo ruled that bail remains discretionary and must serve the interests of justice, noting that the defendant’s influence could undermine ongoing investigations, particularly as some suspects are still at large. The court also dismissed health-related claims due to insufficient evidence.

Despite the earlier ruling, the defence has proceeded with a renewed application, which the ICPC continues to contest.

Source: Daily Post Nigeria