Operatives of the Department of State Services on Wednesday took former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
El-Rufai, who is facing trial over alleged corruption, had just concluded hearing on his bail application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission when DSS operatives whisked him into a waiting vehicle and drove off, reportedly towards Abuja.
The heavy deployment of security personnel around the court ahead of the sitting had earlier sparked speculation that the former governor might be arrested, with security vehicles seen strategically stationed within the court premises.
The defendant arrived at about 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van, attracting the attention of security operatives and onlookers.
Speaking with journalists after the proceedings, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court had reserved ruling on the bail application till April 14.
He said the application had been fully argued, expressing optimism that the court would deliver a favourable decision.
Iyamu also disclosed that the defence team was prepared for another case involving the DSS scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja, describing it as a separate matter.
The development followed Tuesday’s proceedings, which were briefly stalled by arguments over a motion asking the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to recuse himself.
The motion was later withdrawn.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned before the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside one Amadu Sule on separate charges bordering on abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
Security was tightened throughout Wednesday’s hearing, as armed operatives restricted movement within the court premises and barred journalists from gaining access to the courtroom.