latest
Breakdown: Reasons Behind El-Rufai’s Failed Bail Application Exposed.
A Kaduna State High Court has refused bail to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in an ongoing case involving alleged financial misconduct.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Darius Khobo ruled that it was in the interest of justice for the defendant to remain in custody to ensure his appearance throughout the trial.
El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on a nine-count charge bordering on alleged abuse of office, obtaining benefits under false pretences, and dishonest handling of loan funds. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
In his bail application, supported by a 24-paragraph affidavit, El-Rufai argued that the alleged offences were non-capital in nature. He also cited his status as a former governor, his community ties, his voluntary return from Egypt, and claimed he was suffering from health conditions requiring specialist treatment.
However, the ICPC opposed the application, filing a counter-affidavit in which it described the charges as serious economic offences capable of undermining public funds. The agency also argued that granting bail could lead to interference with witnesses and ongoing investigations, and described El-Rufai as a flight risk given his influence and access to resources. It further noted that no medical evidence was provided to support his health claims.
In his ruling, Justice Khobo held that El-Rufai’s reliance on his status was not sufficient, describing it as a “double-edged sword.” He also agreed with the prosecution that there was a risk of interference with investigations.
The judge noted that the prosecution had presented “weighty depositions” in its counter-affidavit, which were not sufficiently challenged by the defence.
He stated that the defendant failed to file a further affidavit to dispute the prosecution’s claims, adding that the unchallenged assertions were therefore deemed admitted.
Justice Khobo further held that where there is credible suspicion that an accused person may evade trial or interfere with witnesses, the court is justified in refusing bail.
He also noted that although El-Rufai claimed ill health, no medical documentation was provided to substantiate the claim.
Accordingly, the court refused the bail application and ordered that El-Rufai remain in ICPC custody pending trial.
The judge also directed that the trial be given an accelerated hearing and commence on a day-to-day basis where possible.
Following the ruling, both prosecution and defence counsel agreed that the trial would begin in the first week of June, with hearings scheduled for June 1, 2, 3, and 4, 2026.
entertainment
“Being Arrogant Is Good” — Burna Boy’s Mother Defends Son Amid Heavy Backlash.
Singer Burna Boy’s mother, Bose Ogulu, has come to his defence following widespread criticism on social media.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
latest
LP: Appeal Court Ruling Victory For Rule Of Law – Usman.
The Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Nenadi Usman, has reacted to the Court of Appeal judgment in her favour, describing it as a victory for democracy, justice, and the rule of law.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
latest
Victory In Court As Charges Against MKO’s Widow Are Dismissed, ₦100m Compensation Ordered.
A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has dismissed all allegations filed by the Nigeria Police Force against Prof. Zainab Duke-Abiola, widow of the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
-
latest8 months ago“Social Media Erupts As Jim Iyke Declares Rita Dominic Nollywood’s Most Beautiful”
-
latest2 years agoEdo Political Showdown: Oshiomhole Appears At Presidential Villa As Tinubu Hands APC Gubernatorial Flag To Okpebholo (Photos & Video)
-
entertainment2 years agoLove Knows No Age American Woman Defends Marriage To Young Nigerian Man “I’m Not 70”
-
latest2 years agoOlumide Akpata Strikes Again: Drops Killer Track, Sends Edo State Into Frenzy!(Video)
-
Politics2 years agoNigerians React As Pastor Adeboye Foresees Passing Away On A Sunday After Enjoying A Satisfying Meal Of Pounded Yam
-
latest2 years agoFG Identifies 31 States At Risk Of Heavy Flooding In 2024: See Full List
-
Politics2 years agoBREAKING: Inspector-General Of Police Summons Top Police Commanders For Crucial-Security Challenges
-
latest2 years ago5 NYSC Corpers Perish In Fatal Road Accident Returning From Camp
