Isaac Samuel
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was on Wednesday taken into custody by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is being tried over alleged corruption, had just concluded arguments on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) when DSS operatives moved him into a waiting vehicle and drove off, reportedly heading to Abuja.
Security presence around the court had been unusually heavy ahead of the hearing, fuelling speculation about a possible arrest. Sources said security vehicles and personnel were strategically deployed around the premises before proceedings commenced.
The former governor arrived at the court at about 9:05 a.m., drawing attention from security operatives and observers.
Addressing journalists after the session, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), said the court had adjourned ruling on the bail application till April 14.
“The application was fully argued, and the court has fixed April 14 for ruling. We are optimistic and will await the court’s decision,” he said.
Iyamu also disclosed that the defence team is set for another matter involving the DSS scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, noting that it is a separate case.
The latest development follows Tuesday’s proceedings, which were briefly disrupted by arguments over a motion seeking the recusal of the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, before it was withdrawn.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned before the Kaduna State High Court, Kawo, alongside Amadu Sule on charges including abuse of office, fraud and conferring undue advantage.
The charges are separate from those before the Federal High Court.
Security remained tight throughout Wednesday’s hearing, with armed operatives restricting movement within the court premises and limiting journalists’ access to the courtroom.
