A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has adjourned the hearing of the bail application filed by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to March 31, ordering that he remain in custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
El-Rufai was arraigned on Tuesday on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public assets and money laundering. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges brought against him.
The former governor arrived at the court premises under heavy security at about 9:00 a.m. and was initially held inside a security vehicle before being escorted into the courtroom for proceedings.
During the hearing, defence counsel, Ukpon Akpan, urged the court to grant bail to allow his client adequately prepare for trial.
However, the prosecution, led by Dr Osuobeni Ekoi Akponimisingha, opposed the request, arguing that releasing the defendant could jeopardise ongoing investigations.
After considering submissions from both sides, the presiding judge, Rilwanu Aikawa, fixed March 31 for the bail hearing.
El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 19, shortly after his release by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, as legal proceedings against him continue.
