The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that proceedings are still ongoing in the corruption case involving former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, before the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna.
At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, presided over by Justice Rilwan Aikawa, the court considered arguments relating to an application seeking a review of the bail conditions earlier granted to the former governor.
El-Rufai and his co-defendant, Joel Adoga, are standing trial on 10 counts bordering on alleged conversion, possession of proceeds of corruption, and money laundering under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, alongside other related statutes.
During earlier proceedings, the court granted el-Rufai bail in the sum of ₦200 million with two sureties in like sum, while an earlier administrative bail granted to Adoga was upheld.
At the latest sitting, defence counsel Oluwole Olaniyan (SAN) urged the court to vary the existing bail terms, while the ICPC, represented by Agada Akogwu, opposed the request, relying on a counter-affidavit already filed before the court.
After hearing submissions from both parties, the court adjourned ruling on the bail variation application to Thursday, May 7.
The defence also requested permission for el-Rufai to access medical care in Abuja. In response, Justice Aikawa granted approval for the former governor to be taken under strict ICPC escort to Mile Dental Clinic and Skipper Eye-Q Hospital, or any other approved medical facility of his choice, after which he must be returned to custody immediately.
The court emphasized that all movements must be carried out under strict supervision by the ICPC.
The commission, through its spokesperson, said it would comply with the court’s directive while ensuring lawful custody of the defendant, stressing that prosecution is being pursued diligently in line with due process.
In a separate development, the ICPC also filed a counter-affidavit at the Kaduna State High Court opposing a fresh bail application submitted by el-Rufai in relation to the same corruption allegations.
At the resumed hearing, defence counsel Ubong Akpang informed the court of the pending application, while ICPC counsel Ibrahim Mukhtar requested time to respond, citing late service of additional processes.
The matter was subsequently adjourned to May 13 for hearing of the fresh bail application.
