Court Delays El-Rufai Bail Hearing to June as Defence Alleges Political Interference

A Kaduna State High Court has postponed the bail hearing of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, extending his time in custody as legal and political tensions around the case continue to build.

Justice Darius Khobo ruled that the bail application would now be heard in the first week of June 2026, effectively delaying any immediate decision on the former governor’s release.

El-Rufai is facing multiple charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission over alleged financial misconduct and abuse of office during his time in charge of Kaduna State.

The adjournment has drawn sharp criticism from the defence team. His lawyer, Ukpon Akpan, described the repeated delays as “politically motivated,” raising concerns about the fairness and independence of the judicial process.

El-Rufai arrived at the court premises early in the morning under heavy security, escorted by operatives of the anti-corruption agency alongside personnel from the Department of State Services.

Outside the courtroom, a crowd of supporters gathered, while security agencies enforced tight control around the venue to prevent any breakdown of order during the proceedings.

The latest development means the former governor—who has remained in custody since his arraignment—will continue to be held until the court reconvenes to determine whether he should be granted bail.

The case has attracted widespread political attention, with analysts closely watching how the proceedings may shape broader narratives around accountability, power, and justice ahead of Nigeria’s next election cycle.