ICPC opposes El-Rufai’s bid to relax bail conditions as court reserves ruling

By Haruna Nagabasa

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has provided fresh updates on the ongoing trial of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.

In a statement issued by the Commission’s Head of Media and Public Communications, Okor Odey, the ICPC said proceedings resumed on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, before Justice Rilwan Aikawa over El-Rufai’s application seeking a variation of his bail conditions.

The anti-graft agency had earlier filed a 10-count charge against El-Rufai and a second defendant, Mr. Joel Adoga, over alleged conversion and possession of proceeds of corruption, as well as money laundering offences said to be contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and other related laws.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

At an earlier sitting, the court granted El-Rufai bail in the sum of N200 million with two sureties in like sum, while the administrative bail earlier granted to Adoga was adopted by the court.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, Dr. Agada Akogwu represented the prosecution, while Oluwole Olaniyan (SAN) led the defence team.

The defence adopted its motion for variation of the bail conditions, while the prosecution opposed the application through a counter-affidavit.

Following arguments from both sides, Justice Aikawa adjourned the matter to Thursday, May 7, 2026, for ruling on the application.

The defence also appealed to the court to permit El-Rufai access to medical treatment, particularly for dental and eye care, at selected hospitals in Abuja.

In his ruling on the request, Justice Aikawa directed the ICPC to allow the former governor to visit medical facilities of his choice, including Mile Dental Clinic and Skipper Eye-Q Hospital in Abuja, under strict supervision.

The court further ordered that El-Rufai be returned to custody immediately after each medical visit.

The ICPC said it remains committed to complying with court orders while ensuring lawful custody of the defendant pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions.

The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to due process and diligent prosecution of the case in line with the law.