El-Rufai back in court as bail hearing takes centre stage

Nasir El-Rufai returned to the Kaduna State High Court on Tuesday, days after a temporary release granted to allow him attend his mother’s burial in Cairo, Egypt.

He is facing prosecution by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on multiple allegations including abuse of office, alleged fraud, money laundering, and conversion of public assets.

The case had previously stalled after he was taken into custody for over a month before being arraigned on a 10-count charge before Justice Rilwan M. Aikawa. He was later returned to detention pending further proceedings.

The court session on Tuesday was scheduled to consider pending applications, including his bail request, after proceedings were adjourned to March 31, 2026.

El-Rufai had been released on compassionate grounds on March 27 following the death of his mother, Hajiya Ummar El-Rufai, with the burial taking place in Egypt. His release came amid a period of public condolence visits and political attention.

During the mourning period, condolences were received from senior political figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress. Several state governors also attended related funeral activities, including Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani.

Prominent political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Peter Obi, Abubakar Malami, Isa Pantami, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola also visited or sent condolences.

El-Rufai, who is linked to the African Democratic Congress, has denied all allegations brought against him.

He was re-arraigned on Tuesday alongside Amadu Sule on additional charges that include alleged abuse of office, fraud, intent to defraud, and granting undue advantage.

The court is expected to rule on his bail application in the Federal High Court in Kaduna at a later date as the trial continues.