The Kaduna State High Court on Monday postponed consideration of a bail request submitted by former Kaduna governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in his ongoing case with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Proceedings have now been rescheduled for Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters after the session, El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan (SAN), confirmed that the court heard arguments on the bail application and formally took his client’s plea.
He also revealed a key development in the case: prosecutors revised the charge sheet, resulting in the removal of one of the previously listed co-defendants.
As it stands, El-Rufai is now the sole defendant facing the allegations.
“The bail motion was argued, and the court has taken the defendant’s plea,” Akpan explained. “Following an amendment to the charges, one co-defendant was struck out, leaving only Malam Nasir El-Rufai in the matter. The case has been adjourned until tomorrow.”
The former governor is currently answering to a 10-count charge involving alleged financial misconduct and money laundering.
Interestingly, beyond the courtroom proceedings, El-Rufai was also overheard discussing internal party matters, specifically the upcoming convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The planned gathering has sparked tension within the opposition party, particularly as it intends to go ahead despite cautionary signals from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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El-Rufai arrived at the court premises earlier in the morning, around 9 a.m., dressed in a white babban riga paired with an ash-coloured cap.
He was seen briefly exchanging words with an associate before heading into the courtroom with members of his legal team, a document in hand.