Former Kaduna governor granted ₦200m bail in federal court but remains in custody pending state court ruling…..
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has released fresh details on the ongoing prosecution of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, who is currently standing trial in two separate courts over allegations linked to his time in office.
The cases, being heard at both the Federal High Court and the Kaduna State High Court, stem from a lengthy investigation into his administration between 2015 and 2023. Authorities allege a pattern of abuse of office, financial misconduct, and money laundering during that period.
According to the Commission, El-Rufai was arrested on February 18, 2026, following the conclusion of its probe. He was subsequently charged alongside a co-defendant, Joel Adoga, in a 10-count charge before Justice Rilwan Aikawa at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
The charges include alleged possession and conversion of proceeds of corruption, as well as violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. Prosecutors claim that the former governor received ₦289.8 million as severance allowances between 2020 and 2023, far exceeding what they say was his legitimate entitlement of just over ₦20 million.
In addition, he is accused of receiving $797,900 into a domiciliary account with Guaranty Trust Bank, funds which investigators allege were linked to unlawful activities. The prosecution also claims that he conspired with Adoga in 2019 to conceal the origin of $10,000.
Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In a parallel proceeding, El-Rufai was arraigned on April 13, 2026, before the Kaduna State High Court on an amended nine-count charge. These include allegations of abuse of office, fraud, and the conferment of undue advantage, in breach of multiple laws including the ICPC Act and the Kaduna State Public Procurement Law.
At the latest hearing, Justice Darius Khobo adjourned a ruling on El-Rufai’s bail application to April 21, stating that more time was needed to finalise the court’s written decision. Until then, the former governor is to remain in ICPC custody.
However, in the separate federal case, the court granted him bail set at ₦200 million, with strict conditions attached. These include providing two sureties one a Kaduna-based property owner with assets valued at the same amount and a verified Certificate of Occupancy, and another recognised as a respected elder endorsed by a council of elders.
The court also ordered the surrender of his international passport, restricted his movement, and mandated monthly reporting to ICPC authorities. He must also formally declare his residence and seek court approval before making any changes.
Despite meeting bail conditions in principle, El-Rufai will remain in custody until all requirements are fully satisfied.
Meanwhile, the court upheld the administrative bail earlier granted to his co-defendant, Adoga.
The ICPC reiterated its commitment to due process, stating that the prosecution is being handled with diligence and in accordance with the law. The Commission added that it will continue to keep the public informed as proceedings unfold across both courts.
