Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai has obtained a court order allowing him to access medical care in Abuja while his corruption trial proceeds. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) confirmed that proceedings continue before the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
Court Proceedings on Bail Variation
During the session before Judge Rilwan Aikawa, arguments were heard on an application to vary bail conditions previously granted to el-Rufai. The former governor and co-defendant Joel Adoga face 10 charges including conversion and possession of proceeds of corruption, as well as money laundering under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The court had earlier granted el-Rufai bail of N200 million with two sureties in like sum, while adopting administrative bail for Adoga. Defence lawyer Oluwole Olaniyan (SAN) urged the court to modify these conditions, but ICPC lawyer Agada Akogwu opposed the request, relying on a filed counter-affidavit. After arguments, the court adjourned ruling until May 7.
Medical Access Granted
The defence also requested that el-Rufai be allowed medical care in Abuja. Judge Aikawa granted permission for the former governor to be transported under strict ICPC supervision to Mile Dental Clinic and Skipper Eye-Q Hospital, or another approved facility, and returned to custody immediately after treatment. The court emphasized that all movements must remain under commission supervision.
The ICPC stated it would comply with the directive while maintaining lawful custody, adding that the prosecution is being pursued diligently and according to due process.
Separate Bail Application in High Court
In a related development, the ICPC filed a counter-affidavit on Tuesday opposing a fresh bail application by el-Rufai before the Kaduna State High Court. At the resumed hearing, defence lawyer Ubong Akpang informed the court of the pending application, while ICPC lawyer Ibrahim Mukhtar noted he had just been served with additional processes and needed time to respond. The court adjourned the matter to May 13 for hearing of the bail application.
