Operatives of the Department of State Services on Wednesday took former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is facing corruption-related charges, had just concluded arguments on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission when DSS operatives escorted him into a waiting vehicle and drove off, reportedly heading to Abuja.
Security presence had been noticeably heavy around the court premises even before the hearing began, sparking speculation that the former governor might be detained. Sources indicated that security vehicles were strategically stationed around the area ahead of the proceedings.
Earlier in the day, El-Rufai arrived at the court around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, drawing attention from both security personnel and observers.
Speaking after the session, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court has fixed April 14 for its ruling on the bail application.
According to him, both parties presented their arguments, and the defence team remains optimistic about the outcome. He added that they are prepared for another case involving El-Rufai scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a separate matter.
The latest development follows Tuesday’s adjournment, during which legal arguments over a motion asking the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to step down briefly disrupted proceedings before the motion was eventually withdrawn.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside Amadu Sule on separate charges, including abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Security remained tight throughout Wednesday’s hearing, with armed operatives restricting movement around the court and limiting media access to the courtroom.