A Kaduna State High Court has denied the bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, ordering that he remain in custody pending the start of his trial.

The ruling was delivered by Justice D.H. Khobo on April 21, 2026, in a case brought by the Federal Republic of Nigeria through the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

El-Rufai had asked the court to grant him bail either on self-recognition or under conditions the court considered appropriate.

In his application, he argued that the charges against him were not capital offences and that he had constitutional rights to liberty and a fair hearing. He also told the court that he had strong community ties, fixed addresses, and no intention of fleeing.

The former governor further stated that he voluntarily returned from Egypt in February 2026 to honour an invitation from authorities, which he said demonstrated his willingness to cooperate.

He also raised health concerns, claiming he needed specialist medical attention.

However, the ICPC strongly opposed the request, describing the allegations as serious and economically damaging. The commission argued that El-Rufai could interfere with witnesses or ongoing investigations involving other persons.

The anti-graft agency also alleged that he obstructed law enforcement officers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja earlier this year.

In his decision, Justice Khobo held that the seriousness of the charges and concerns raised by investigators outweighed the reasons presented for bail.

The judge also ruled that El-Rufai failed to provide sufficient medical evidence to support his health-related claims.

As a result, the court ordered that he remain in ICPC custody while trial preparations continue.

The court fixed June 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2026, for accelerated day-to-day hearings of the case.

With the ruling, the former governor will stay in custody until the substantive trial begins.