The Federal High Court in Abuja has turned down a request by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to ease the strict conditions attached to his bail in the ongoing alleged wiretapping case.
This ruling comes as the DSS closed its case, similar to other high-profile political cases such as El-Rufai filing an N1bn suit against the ICPC over an unlawful invasion.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the existing bail terms remain unchanged.
The conditions include providing sureties who are level 17 civil servants with landed properties in Maitama or Asokoro, along with verification letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council.
View Full Case Documents & Official DSS Witness Files
📥 Access Case Files (PDF)El-Rufai’s lawyer, Paul Erokoro, had argued that the requirements were too difficult to fulfill. However, the counsel for the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwole Aladedoye, opposed the application, insisting that suitable sureties are available.
DSS Closes Case
In a key development, the DSS formally closed its case against El-Rufai after informing the court it would not call more witnesses. The defense has indicated plans to file a “no-case submission,” arguing that the prosecution failed to present enough evidence to require El-Rufai to open a defense.
The court adjourned the matter to September 22 to allow both sides time to file their submissions.
Background of the Case
El-Rufai has been facing charges related to alleged unlawful interception of communications. He has consistently denied the allegations, describing them as politically motivated.
The case has attracted significant public attention due to his stature as a former governor and influential political figure.
The rejection of the bail variation means El-Rufai must continue to meet the original conditions while the legal process continues.
The upcoming no-case submission will be critical in determining whether the matter proceeds to full trial or is dismissed.
This ruling reflects the court’s firm stance on the bail terms, even as the defense continues to push for more favorable conditions.