From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was taken into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday, shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is on trial for alleged corruption, had just finished a hearing regarding his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC).
The DSS operatives hurriedly placed El-Rufai into a waiting vehicle and drove him away, reportedly heading to Abuja.
A heavy DSS presence around the court before the hearing sparked speculation that the former governor might be taken into custody. Security sources confirmed that vehicles had been strategically positioned around the court before the proceedings.
El-Rufai arrived at the court around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, attracting attention from security personnel and onlookers. Speaking to journalists afterward, lead defense counsel Oluwole Iyamu (SAN) confirmed that the court had scheduled April 14 for a ruling on his bail application.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14. We look forward to that day. We are hopeful.
“We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice,” Iyamu said.
He also mentioned that the defense team is prepared for a related case scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as “a separate matter.”
This development followed Tuesday’s adjournment, when legal exchanges over a motion to have the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, recuse himself briefly complicated proceedings, which were later withdrawn.
El-Rufai was previously arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court, Kawo, alongside Amadu Sule on charges including abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage. These charges are separate from the Federal High Court case.
Security remained tight throughout Wednesday’s proceedings, with armed operatives restricting movement and denying journalists access to the court.
The son of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Hon. Bello El-Rufai, thanked everyone who took the time to attend the court proceedings, saying that, as usual, he and other associates are in court to stand in solidarity with Mallam Nasir El-Rufai in the face of the persecution he is experiencing.
“I heard they adjourned to the next bail hearing on the 14th, and we’re hoping that when we come there, a decision will be made, Insha’Allah.
“There’s no point in delaying anything, but we still believe in the rule of law, and we hope justice shall prevail — not just because it’s Mallam Nasir, but I think it’s important to every Nigerian citizen, that we focus on that.
“So, we want to thank you all for coming, including supporters of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, for being here. And by the grace of God, it shall be well.”
