ICPC Opposes El-Rufai’s Fresh Bail Application

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a counter-affidavit opposing a fresh bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

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The application is part of the ongoing case before the Kaduna State High Court.

At the resumed hearing on Tuesday, counsel to the defendant, Ubong Akpang, informed the court that a fresh bail application was pending and said the matter concerned his client’s liberty.

He told the court that all necessary processes had been filed and served, adding that the defence was ready to proceed with the hearing.

However, counsel to the ICPC, Ibrahim Mukhtar, told the court that he had only just been served with the defendant’s further affidavit in support of the bail application.

Mukhtar said he needed time to study the new processes. Following the development, the court adjourned the matter till May 13, 2026, for the hearing of the bail application.

Court Earlier Denied Bail

The court had earlier refused to grant bail to El-Rufai in a previous application.

Justice D.H. Khobo held that the defendant had not filed a further affidavit to challenge the ICPC’s counter-affidavit, which raised fresh facts.

The facts included alleged flight risk due to his influence and resources, alleged obstruction of lawful arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, refusal to surrender travel documents and devices for investigation, and concerns over possible interference with witnesses and evidence.

In its earlier ruling, the court emphasised that bail is discretionary and must serve the interest of justice.

Justice Khobo held that the defendant’s status could aid interference with ongoing investigations, especially as some suspects were still at large.

The court also noted El-Rufai’s failure to challenge key allegations in the prosecution’s counter-affidavit, which it deemed admitted.

It dismissed his health claims for lack of evidence.

Consequently, the court refused bail and ordered that he remain in ICPC custody pending the commencement of trial, while directing an accelerated hearing.

Despite the ruling, the defence filed a fresh bail application. The ICPC said it remained committed to diligent prosecution of corruption cases and the upholding of due process.