Judge’s Illness Stalls El-Rufai Bail Ruling

The Federal High Court in Kaduna on Wednesday failed to sit after the presiding judge reportedly fell ill, delaying ruling on the bail applications filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and his co-defendant, Jimi Lawal.

Naija News understands that the case was instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Justice Hauwa’u Buhari had fixed Wednesday, July 1, 2026, for ruling after hearing arguments from prosecution and defence counsel.

However, the proceedings could not proceed as scheduled.

“They said the judge is sick,” a court source who spoke with Punch said.

A fresh date for the ruling is expected to be communicated to the parties.

The development came two days after the Kaduna State High Court rejected El-Rufai’s bail application in a separate ICPC case.

Justice Diruis Khobo dismissed the application, holding that it lacked merit.

The court, however, directed the ICPC to grant the former governor access to his medical team or any medical facility of his choice within Nigeria.

At the Federal High Court, El-Rufai is standing trial alongside Lawal and five companies on an amended 11-count charge bordering on alleged abuse of office, financial impropriety and money laundering.

El-Rufai has denied the allegations, insisting that actions taken during his administration were lawful and in the public interest.

The matter is expected to continue after a new date is fixed.