Heavy security presence surrounds Kaduna court as former governor is taken into custody.
By John Ishaku | Abuja, Nigeria
Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have taken former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. The development follows a hearing on his bail application in an ongoing corruption case.
El-Rufai was detained on Wednesday moments after the court session concluded, with DSS operatives escorting him into a waiting vehicle reportedly bound for Abuja.
The former governor is currently facing trial over allegations brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). His legal team had earlier argued his bail application before the court.
A significant security presence was observed around the court premises ahead of the hearing, fuelling speculation about a possible arrest. Security vehicles were strategically positioned, while armed operatives restricted access to the court complex, including limiting journalists’ entry.
El-Rufai arrived at the court around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux vehicle, drawing attention from security personnel and observers.
Speaking after the proceedings, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court had reserved ruling on the bail application until April 14.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14. We are hopeful and await the court’s decision,” he said.
Iyamu also disclosed that the defence team is preparing for a separate matter involving the DSS scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The latest development follows an earlier adjournment on Tuesday, during which legal arguments over a motion requesting the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to recuse himself briefly stalled proceedings before the motion was withdrawn.
El-Rufai is also facing separate charges at the Kaduna State High Court, Kawo, alongside one Amadu Sule. The charges include alleged abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Tight Security Raises Concerns
The heavy deployment of DSS operatives and restricted access to the courtroom underscored the sensitivity of the case, with observers noting heightened tension around the proceedings.
Multiple Legal Battles Ongoing
The former governor is simultaneously facing separate cases in different courts, complicating his legal situation and drawing national attention.
The detention of a high-profile political figure like El-Rufai signals intensifying anti-corruption enforcement and carries potential political implications ahead of the 2027 elections.
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
Leave a Reply