Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been remanded in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) following a court hearing, with a ruling on his bail application fixed for April 14, 2026.

El-Rufai was arraigned before a Federal High Court where legal arguments were presented by both the prosecution and his defence team regarding his request for bail.

After listening to submissions, the trial judge adjourned the matter, setting a date to deliver a ruling on whether he should be granted bail or remain in detention. Following the court session, the former governor was returned to ICPC custody in Abuja, where he will remain pending the outcome of the bail decision.

The case against El-Rufai involve allegations bordering on corruption, abuse of office, and related offences. Prosecutors argued against granting bail, citing concerns that his release could interfere with ongoing investigations and potentially influence witnesses.

However, his defence team maintained that the former governor poses no flight risk and is willing to face trial, urging the court to grant him bail on liberal terms.

Security was tightened around the court premises during the proceedings, with restricted access and the presence of armed personnel.

The court is expected to deliver its ruling on April 14, a decision that will determine whether El-Rufai regains temporary freedom or continues in custody as the case progresses.