KADUNA, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Kaduna State has scheduled April 14, 2026, to deliver its ruling on a bail application filed by Nasir El-Rufai, who is facing charges related to alleged financial misconduct.
At proceedings on Wednesday, both the defence and prosecution presented final arguments on whether the former governor should be granted bail pending the outcome of his trial.
Counsel for El-Rufai, Iyamu Oyewole, told the court that bail is a constitutional right and argued that his client has strong ties within Nigeria, making it unlikely that he would abscond.
Prosecutors opposed the application, raising concerns that El-Rufai could interfere with witnesses or obstruct ongoing investigations if released from custody.
After hearing submissions from both sides, the presiding judge, Justice Rilwan Aikawa, adjourned the matter and said a decision would be delivered on April 14.
El-Rufai will remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission pending the ruling.
The former governor, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, is being prosecuted over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office brought by the anti-corruption agency.
He appeared in court on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, under heightened security, arriving at about 9 a.m. Observers, including supporters and political stakeholders, were present as proceedings resumed.
