A Kaduna Federal High Court has fixed March 31 for the hearing of a bail application filed by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai. The 10-count charge against him, brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, includes alleged conversion of public property and money laundering. El-Rufai pleaded not guilty to all the charges, and he remains in custody of the ICPC.
The former governor was brought to the court in a Hilux vehicle, accompanied by security operatives. He spent about 30 minutes outside the courtroom before being escorted in. A heavy security presence was observed within and around the court premises.
The defendant's counsel, Mr Ukpon Akpan, sought bail to enable his client prepare for his defence. However, the prosecution counsel, Dr Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha, opposed the application, citing ongoing investigations by the ICPC.
The ICPC's prolonged custody of Nasir El-Rufai raises questions about the commission's commitment to due process. The former governor's bail application has been adjourned to March 31, leaving him in detention for over two months. The EFCC's earlier release of El-Rufai only served to underscore the ICPC's determination to pursue its case against him. The implications of this case are far-reaching, particularly for those in positions of authority who may face similar allegations in the future. As the court prepares to hear El-Rufai's bail application, Nigerians will be watching to see whether justice is served.
