The legal battles surrounding the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, took a dramatic turn on Wednesday as he was taken back into Department of State Services (DSS’s) custody following a high-stakes court appearance.
Amidst tight security and mounting public interest, the Federal High Court has officially scheduled the El-Rufai bail ruling for April 14, 2026.
The former governor, who has recently faced a whirlwind of litigation across multiple jurisdictions, appeared before the court to address charges involving alleged national security breaches and financial misconduct.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that El-Rufai is back in DSS’s custody after a brief period of compassionate release granted last week following the passing of his mother. However, the respite was short-lived as security operatives moved to re-detain him immediately after the day’s proceedings.
The prosecution, led by the DSS, argued strongly against the defendant’s release, citing the sensitive nature of the allegations which include the “unlawful interception of communications” belonging to the National Security Adviser (NSA).
Defense counsel, however, maintained that the charges are politically motivated and that their client remains entitled to liberty pending trial. Xenq
Speaking after proceedings, El-Rufai’s lead counsel, Mr Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), expressed cautious optimism.
“My name is Oluwole Iyamu; I am a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. I lead the defence team for Malam Nasir El-Rufai. The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14,” Iyamu said.
“We look forward to that day. We are hopeful. We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice. We await the decision of the court,” he added.
On another front, Iyamu confirmed that the legal team is fully prepared for a separate matter scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a “DSS matter”.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, El-Rufai was immediately re-arrested within the court premises by operatives of the DSS.
Eyewitnesses reported that DSS personnel, who had maintained a heavy presence around the court, swiftly took custody of the former governor moments after the proceedings.
Meanwhile, at a separate Kaduna State High Court sitting in Kawo on Tuesday, El-Rufai and one Amadu Sule were arraigned on allegations including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
The ICPC instituted the charges, which are distinct from the matters before the Federal High Court. Following the State High Court proceedings, El-Rufai was moved to the Federal High Court located on the same premises.
