Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai was swiftly transferred from ICPC custody to detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, right after a tense Federal High Court hearing in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, currently on trial for alleged corruption, had sought bail through an application challenging charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
As the session wrapped, DSS operatives escorted the ex-governor into a waiting vehicle and whisked him off to Abuja.
Earlier, a heavy DSS presence blanketed the court area, fueling speculation of an imminent arrest. Security sources revealed that vehicles were pre-positioned near the Federal High Court premises before proceedings kicked off.
El-Rufai rolled up at around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, instantly drawing eyes from security teams and onlookers alike.
After the hearing, lead defense lawyer Oluwole Iyamu (SAN) told journalists that the court had adjourned until April 14 for a ruling on the bail application. “The bail application was argued and responded to. The court has fixed April 14 for the ruling. We are hopeful and await the court’s decision,” Iyamu said.
He added that the defense team is prepared for a related case scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja. “That is a separate matter, and we have filed all necessary processes. We will be in court for the DSS matter,” Iyamu noted.
Wednesday’s proceedings followed Tuesday’s adjournment, which included brief complications from a motion seeking the recusal of presiding judge Rilwan M. Aikawa, a motion that was later withdrawn.
Earlier, El-Rufai had been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside Amadu Sule on charges including abuse of office, fraud, and granting undue advantage. Those cases are distinct from the Federal High Court matter.
Security was tight throughout the session, with armed personnel restricting access to the courtroom and limiting journalists’ movements.
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