A Kaduna State High Court has refused bail to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, citing what it described as “weighty allegations” and concerns that his influence could interfere with ongoing investigations. Delivering the ruling, Justice Darius Khobo held that the charges against the former governor were sufficiently serious to justify his continued detention. The court noted that allegations of financial impropriety required careful judicial consideration, stating that the circumstances of the case warranted denying bail at this stage.

According to the court, the decision was specifically influenced by concerns that El-Rufai’s position and influence could potentially obstruct ongoing investigative processes. El-Rufai is facing a nine-count charge bordering on alleged financial misconduct. A key allegation is that he influenced the Kaduna State Government to release about eleven billion naira to an unregistered entity for a light rail project that was never executed. The former governor has consistently denied all allegations brought against him.

El-Rufai’s legal team, led by Ubong Akpan, SAN, expressed strong disagreement with the ruling but affirmed their respect for the court’s authority. The defence confirmed plans to challenge the decision on appeal, with Akpan stating, “The defence disagrees with the decision but respects the court’s position. He confirms that the legal team will promptly challenge the ruling by filing the necessary appeal.”

The defence further argued that the prosecution was politically driven, describing the case as part of a wider political agenda targeting the former governor. Akpan maintained that the refusal to grant bail appeared to be anchored on the assumption that his client, by virtue of being a former governor, could tamper with investigations. “The court, in its wisdom, decided that because Nasir El-Rufai is a former governor, he is going to interfere with the investigation. Therefore, he is not entitled to bail in an allegation of financial impropriety. We respectfully disagree,” Akpan said, adding that the legal team would study the court’s decision and pursue appropriate legal remedies.

This ruling comes despite an earlier decision by the Federal High Court in Kaduna, which had reportedly granted El-Rufai bail under strict conditions pending compliance. However, the Kaduna State High Court ordered his remand. Following an earlier adjournment of ruling on his bail application, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai will remain in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) pending a decision scheduled for the first week of June.

The defence lawyer also appealed to supporters of the former governor to remain calm and law-abiding despite the development. He urged them not to allow fear to take over, emphasizing that in a conflict, there are gains and setbacks, and that they would continue the battle.