By Paul Joseph
A Kaduna State High Court has rejected the bail application of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who is standing trial over alleged abuse of office.
In a ruling delivered by Justice Diruis Khobo, the court held that El-Rufai failed to present sufficient evidence to warrant his release on bail.
The former governor was not present in court during the proceedings as he remained in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
While refusing the bail request, the court directed the ICPC to grant El-Rufai unrestricted access to his medical team or any medical facility of his choice within Nigeria for necessary treatment.
Justice Khobo further ordered that the former governor should remain in the custody of the anti-graft agency pending the continuation of his trial.
The case was adjourned until July 7 and July 8 for further hearing.
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023, is facing a nine-count charge bordering on alleged abuse of office. The ICPC accused him of breaching public procurement and financial management regulations in the award and execution of government contracts during his administration.
He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. While his legal team maintains that the prosecution is politically motivated and without merit, the ICPC insists it has sufficient documentary and witness evidence to support its case.
The trial has continued to draw widespread public interest due to El-Rufai’s prominent role in Nigeria’s political landscape.
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