The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday granted bail to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the sum of N100 million.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik approved the bail application with strict conditions attached, including the provision of one surety in like sum.
According to the court, the surety must be a resident of either Maitama or Asokoro, two high-profile districts within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The judge further directed that the surety must deposit the original Certificate of Occupancy for a landed property with the court registry as part of the bail requirements.
In addition, the court ruled that the surety must be a serving federal civil servant not below Grade Level 17. The individual is also expected to provide evidence of salary payments covering at least three months.
Justice Abdulmalik added that all submitted financial documents must be authenticated through a formal letter issued by the surety’s bank manager within the court’s jurisdiction.
The ruling followed proceedings at the Federal High Court amid growing public attention surrounding the former governor’s legal battle. Although full details of the charges and arguments presented in court were yet to be released at the time of filing this report, the bail decision immediately generated reactions from political observers and supporters.
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The case has continued to attract national interest due to El-Rufai’s prominent role in Nigerian politics and his influence within opposition circles following his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.
Prior to the ruling, various political associates and supporters had called for fairness and due process in the handling of the matter. Some opposition figures also urged the judiciary to remain impartial and ensure that the former governor’s rights were protected throughout the proceedings.
Observers noted that the stringent bail conditions imposed by the court reflected the seriousness of the case and the judiciary’s determination to ensure compliance with all legal procedures.
El-Rufai, who served as governor of Kaduna State for two terms, remains one of Nigeria’s most recognisable political figures. Since leaving office, he has continued to play an active role in national political discussions and party affairs.
The latest development is expected to shape political conversations in the coming days, especially among stakeholders monitoring legal and political developments ahead of future electoral activities.
Details later…
