The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has opposed the bail application filed by Jimi Lawal, the second defendant in the alleged financial misconduct case involving former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Presiding judge Justice Hauwa’u Buhari of the Federal High Court in Kaduna adjourned the bail hearing to Friday, October 16, 2026, while the substantive case was shifted to December 8.
ICPC counsel Ibrahim Mukhtar confirmed that the commission had filed a counter-affidavit against Lawal’s bail request but declined to reveal details, saying arguments had yet to be presented in court.
Lawal’s defence team sought bail on medical grounds, arguing that his health condition warranted release.
They also noted that the defendant had previously been granted administrative bail.
However, the prosecution requested more time to review a further affidavit filed by the defence in response to its counter-affidavit. Defence argued poor health justified bail.
Commission filed a counter-affidavit against the application.
Bail hearing set for October 16; substantive case adjourned to December 8.New counsel: Both prosecution and defence teams introduced new lawyers, requesting time to familiarise themselves with the case.
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, appeared in court under tight security.
He and Lawal face multiple counts of alleged financial misconduct, though proceedings have yet to begin and no witnesses have been called.Both defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty.
