Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Wednesday took former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, into custody shortly after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Kaduna.
The move followed a hearing on his bail application in an ongoing corruption case.
El-Rufai, who is facing trial over alleged financial misconduct, had just concluded arguments on his bail request when DSS officials moved in.
He was escorted out of the court premises under tight security and taken into a waiting vehicle. Sources said he was immediately transported to Abuja.
Security presence around the court was unusually heavy before the hearing began. Several DSS vehicles were seen stationed at strategic points within and outside the premises. This raised early concerns among observers and journalists that an arrest could happen.
The former governor arrived at the court around 9:05 a.m. in a Hilux van. His presence drew attention from both security agents and members of the public who had gathered to follow the case.
Proceedings went on as scheduled, with both prosecution and defence presenting arguments on the bail application.
Speaking after the session, lead defence counsel, Oluwole Iyamu (SAN), confirmed that the court has reserved ruling on the bail request until April 14.
“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14. We look forward to that day. We are hopeful. We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice. We await the decision of the court,” he said.
Iyamu also addressed another case involving his client. He explained that a separate matter has been scheduled for April 10 at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
“That is a separate matter. As lawyers, we are ready. We have filed all necessary processes and will be in court. That is the DSS matter,” he added.
The latest development comes a day after proceedings were briefly stalled due to legal arguments over a motion asking the presiding judge, Rilwan M. Aikawa, to step down from the case. The issue was later resolved after the motion was withdrawn, allowing the hearing to continue.
El-Rufai had earlier been arraigned before the Kaduna State High Court in Kawo alongside Amadu Sule. They are facing charges bordering on abuse of office, fraud, and granting undue advantage. That case is separate from the ongoing trial at the Federal High Court.
