The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has secured a court order granting bail to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, though his release remains on hold pending fulfilment of stringent conditions.
Ruling at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, Justice Rilwan M. Aikawa approved bail but ordered that the former governor remain in ICPC custody until all requirements are fully satisfied.
The bail conditions include a N200 million bond, two sureties in like sum, submission of landed property documents, and deposit of international passports. One surety must be a recognised traditional ruler, while the other must be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15.
The court also imposed restrictions limiting public commentary on the case and directed El-Rufai to appear for all scheduled proceedings.
Although bail was granted, legal constraints mean the former governor cannot immediately regain freedom until the conditions are verified and approved by the court.
In a parallel case before a Kaduna State High Court in Kaduna State, El-Rufai is also facing charges including abuse of office and fraud. That matter was adjourned to April 21, 2026, after earlier delays in delivering a ruling on his bail application.
Court proceedings were briefly disrupted following the judge’s inability to conclude the ruling earlier scheduled, while defence counsel cited procedural and administrative factors for the delay.
The ICPC had earlier filed multiple charges across both federal and state courts, although one co-defendant was later dropped from the case, narrowing the focus of the trial.
With proceedings ongoing in both courts, El-Rufai remains in custody as legal battles over bail conditions and substantive charges continue to unfold.
Court Grants El-Rufai Bail, But Strict Conditions Delay Release
