JUST IN: El-Rufai Loses Bid to Relax Bail Conditions, Remains in Custody

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has failed in his attempt to secure a relaxation of the bail conditions earlier imposed on him by the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The ruling, delivered on Tuesday by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, means the former governor will remain in custody pending his ability to meet the existing bail requirements.

El-Rufai had approached the court through his counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), asking for a review of the conditions attached to his bail. His legal team argued that the terms were excessively strict and difficult to satisfy within a reasonable time.

According to the defence, some of the conditions were unrealistic, especially the requirement for sureties who must be level 17 civil servants with landed properties in high-profile areas of Abuja, specifically Maitama or Asokoro.

The defence also raised concerns over the additional requirement involving verification and attestation letters from the Kaduna State traditional council, insisting that the conditions placed unnecessary obstacles before the former governor.

However, the prosecution strongly opposed the application.

Counsel to the prosecution, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), told the court that the conditions were not impossible to meet. He argued that qualified public officers who fit the court’s requirements exist and urged the court to dismiss El-Rufai’s request.

In her ruling, Justice Abdulmalik declined the application and maintained the original bail conditions.

The judge held that the court saw no sufficient reason to alter the earlier decision, stressing that individuals capable of meeting the requirements are available.

Meanwhile, proceedings continued in the alleged wiretapping case filed against the former Kaduna governor.

At Tuesday’s hearing, the Department of State Services (DSS) officially closed its case against El-Rufai.

Prosecuting counsel informed the court that the prosecution would not be presenting additional witnesses, signaling the end of the DSS case.

Following that development, El-Rufai’s legal team informed the court of its intention to file a no-case submission.

The defence argued that the prosecution has failed to establish a strong enough case to warrant further proceedings against the former governor.

A no-case submission is a legal application asking the court to dismiss charges on the grounds that the prosecution has not presented sufficient evidence to justify continuing the trial.

The defence requested two weeks to file its application.

The prosecution also asked for two weeks to study and respond to the submission.

Justice Abdulmalik subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22 for hearing of the no-case submission and continuation of proceedings.

The next stage of the case is expected to determine whether El-Rufai will be required to open his defence or if the court will dismiss the charges.