El‑Rufai’s Arraignment Stalled as ICPC Probe, DSS Custody Delay Court Appearance
The ongoing investigation of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El‑Rufai, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Wednesday stalled his scheduled arraignment by the Department of State Services (DSS).
El‑Rufai’s arraignment, fixed for Wednesday before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja, could not proceed due to his absence in court.
When the matter was called, DSS counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), informed the court that although the case was listed for the defendant to take his plea, he had not yet been released to them by a sister agency. Aladedoye noted that he had already conferred with counsel for the former governor and both parties agreed to seek another date.
In response, defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed the submission but raised the issue of bail for his client.
Counsel for the DSS opposed the bail application, arguing that it was premature and could only properly be raised after the defendant’s formal arraignment.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, having considered the submissions, declined to grant bail, noting that her court was not yet seized of the matter. The judge affirmed that El‑Rufai may only apply for bail following his arraignment.
The court thereafter adjourned the case to April 23 for arraignment.
The DSS had earlier filed charges against the former Kaduna State Governor over his alleged involvement in wiretapping the telephone lines of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
