The legal battle over the freedom of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, took a dramatic turn on Tuesday as a Federal High Court in Kaduna adjourned ruling on his bail application to March 31, 2026.
The courtroom showdown saw counsel to El-Rufai, Ukpon Akpan, push strongly for his client’s release, arguing that bail is a constitutional right and essential for adequate preparation of his defence.
The defence maintained that the former governor poses no flight risk and should not be denied liberty while standing trial.
However, the prosecution, led by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), urged the court to reject the application.
It argued that the weight of the allegations, ranging from corruption to abuse of office, requires caution, warning that granting bail could interfere with ongoing investigations.
El-Rufai is facing trial alongside Joel Adoga over alleged financial misconduct during his time in office, a case that has drawn significant public and political attention.
Outside the courthouse, the atmosphere reflected the high stakes of the proceedings.
Security was visibly intensified, with armed personnel deployed across strategic points as supporters and curious onlookers gathered in anticipation.
In a move that added to the tension, journalists were denied access to the courtroom, leaving many details of the proceedings shielded from public view as the nation now awaits the court’s decision on whether the embattled former governor will regain temporary freedom
