A Federal High Court in has postponed a decision on bail for former state governor until 31 March, following his arraignment on corruption-related charges.
Mr El-Rufai appeared in court on Tuesday facing a 10-count charge brought by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the (ICPC). The charges include alleged conversion of public property and money laundering.
He pleaded not guilty to all the allegations.
The former governor was brought to the court premises under tight security and remained in a vehicle for some time before being escorted into the courtroom. There was a heavy security presence in and around the court during the proceedings.
Defence lawyer Ukpon Akpan asked the court to grant bail, arguing that his client needed time and access to prepare his defence. However, the prosecution opposed the request, saying releasing him at this stage could affect ongoing investigations.
Presiding judge adjourned the case, setting 31 March as the date to hear the bail application.
Mr El-Rufai has been in the custody of the ICPC since February, after previously being held by the (EFCC).
The case is likely to draw significant attention as legal proceedings continue.
