DSS Takes El-Rufai into Custody as Court Sets Bail Hearing for April 14
By Editor
Operatives of the Department of State Services on Wednesday took former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is facing trial over alleged corruption, had just concluded a hearing on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission when DSS operatives escorted him into a waiting vehicle and drove off, reportedly heading to Abuja.
There had been heavy security presence around the court before the hearing, raising speculation that the former governor might be detained. Security vehicles were also strategically stationed around the premises ahead of proceedings.
The former governor arrived at the court around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, attracting attention from security personnel and observers present at the venue.
Speaking after the hearing, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu, confirmed that the court fixed April 14 for ruling on the bail application.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14. We look forward to that day and remain hopeful,” he said, adding that the defence had presented its arguments before the court.
Iyamu also disclosed that the legal team is preparing for another case involving El-Rufai scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a separate matter linked to the DSS.
The latest development followed Tuesday’s adjournment, when legal arguments over a motion for the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to step down briefly disrupted proceedings before the motion was withdrawn.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside Amadu Sule on separate charges including abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Security remained tight throughout Wednesday’s session, with armed operatives restricting movement and preventing journalists from gaining access to the courtroom.