Operatives of the Department of State Services on Wednesday took former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, where his bail application was heard in an ongoing corruption case.
The arrest happened immediately after the court session, as security agents moved him into a waiting vehicle and took him away, with indications that he was being transported to Abuja. Before the hearing began, there had already been a strong security presence around the court premises, with vehicles and personnel positioned in different areas, raising expectations that he might be detained after the session.
El-Rufai had arrived at the court earlier in the morning under tight security as part of proceedings linked to charges filed against him. The case involves allegations connected to abuse of office, financial misconduct, and related offences brought by the anti-corruption agency. After hearing arguments from both sides on the bail request, the court fixed April 14, 2026, to deliver its decision.
His legal team confirmed that the bail request had been fully argued and that they were waiting for the court’s ruling on the scheduled date. The defence also indicated readiness for another case involving him, which is expected to come up on April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The development followed an earlier court session where issues arose concerning a request for the presiding judge, Justice Rilwan Aikawa, to step aside from the case, although that matter was later withdrawn, allowing proceedings to continue.
Apart from the Federal High Court case, El-Rufai is also facing a separate trial at the Kaduna State High Court alongside another defendant, Amadu Sule, where they are accused of offences including abuse of office and fraud. Both cases are being handled independently.
Security remained tight throughout the proceedings, with armed operatives controlling access to the court area and limiting movement within the premises as the case continues to attract public attention.