The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a counter-affidavit opposing a fresh bail application brought by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, in an ongoing case at the Kaduna State High Court.
At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, counsel to El-Rufai, Mr. Ubong Akpang, informed the court that a new bail application had been filed, stressing that it concerns the liberty of the defendant. He also confirmed that all relevant processes had been served and urged the court to proceed with the application.
However, ICPC counsel, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, told the court that he had only just been served with additional affidavits supporting the bail request and needed time to properly review them.
Following the submissions, the court adjourned the matter to May 13, 2026, for hearing of the bail application.
This latest development comes after the court had previously refused El-Rufai’s earlier bail application. In that ruling, Justice D.H. Khobo held that the former governor had failed to adequately challenge the ICPC’s counter-affidavit, which raised serious concerns about flight risk, alleged interference with investigations, and obstruction during attempts to arrest him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The court also referenced claims that El-Rufai had refused to surrender his travel documents and electronic devices, as well as concerns that his influence could compromise witnesses and ongoing investigations.
Justice Khobo noted that bail remains at the discretion of the court and must serve the interest of justice. He further held that the defendant’s position and resources could potentially hinder the course of investigation, especially with some suspects still at large.
The court dismissed unverified health claims due to lack of supporting evidence and ruled that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody pending trial, while ordering an accelerated hearing of the case.
Despite that ruling, the defence team has now filed a new bail application, which the ICPC has formally opposed, setting the stage for further legal arguments when the matter resumes.
