By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has opposed a fresh bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, in an ongoing case before the Kaduna State High Court.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Media and Public Communications Unit of the ICPC, Mr. J. Okor Odey, the development was disclosed following proceedings at the resumed hearing of the matter.
Counsel to the defendant, Mr. Ubong Akpang, informed the court of the pending bail application, stressing that it concerns the liberty of his client. He added that all necessary processes had been duly filed and served, indicating readiness to proceed.
However, counsel to the ICPC, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, told the court that he had only just been served with the defendant’s further affidavit in support of the application and would require time to study the new filings.
In view of this, the court adjourned the matter to May 13, 2026, for hearing of the bail application.
The court had earlier declined to grant bail to the former governor in a previous application. Honourable Justice D.H. Khobo ruled that the defendant failed to file a further affidavit to counter the ICPC’s submissions, which introduced new and weighty allegations.
Among the issues raised by the prosecution were concerns over possible flight risk due to the defendant’s influence and resources, alleged obstruction of lawful arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, refusal to surrender travel documents and electronic devices, as well as the potential to interfere with witnesses and evidence.
The court held that bail remains discretionary and must align with the interests of justice. Justice Khobo further noted that the defendant’s status could enable interference with ongoing investigations, particularly as some suspects are still at large.
The court also observed that the failure of the defendant to controvert key allegations in the ICPC’s counter-affidavit amounted to an admission of those claims, while dismissing health-related arguments for lack of substantiating evidence.
Consequently, the court ordered that the defendant remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission pending the commencement of trial, and directed that the matter be given accelerated hearing.
Despite the earlier ruling, the defence proceeded to file a fresh bail application, which the Commission has now formally opposed, reaffirming its commitment to due process and the diligent prosecution of corruption cases.
