Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday took former Nasir El‑Rufai into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court, Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is currently facing trial over alleged corruption, had just concluded a hearing on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). DSS operatives reportedly bundled him into a waiting vehicle and drove away, with sources indicating that he was being taken to Abuja.
A heavy security presence had been noticed around the court premises even before the hearing began. Several DSS vehicles were strategically positioned around the complex, fuelling speculation that the former governor might be detained after the proceedings.
El-Rufai arrived at the court at about 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, drawing the attention of security personnel and observers gathered at the venue. Movement within the court premises remained restricted throughout the session, as armed operatives controlled access and limited the movement of journalists.
Speaking with reporters after the hearing, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court had fixed April 14 for ruling on the bail application.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14,” Iyamu said.
“We look forward to that day. We are hopeful. We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice. We await the decision of the court.”
The lawyer also revealed that the defence team is preparing for another case scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court, Abuja, describing it as a separate matter.
“That is a separate matter. As lawyers, we are ready. We have filed all necessary processes and will be in court. That is the DSS matter,” he added.
The development followed Tuesday’s proceedings, which were briefly complicated by a motion asking the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to recuse himself. The motion was later withdrawn after legal exchanges between the parties.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned at the Kaduna State High Court, Kawo alongside Amadu Sule on charges including abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage. Those charges are separate from the case currently before the Federal High Court.
Security remained tight throughout Wednesday’s proceedings, with armed operatives stationed around the court and restricting access to the courtroom.
