By LEVI JOHNSON
Former Kaduna State Governor remains in El-Rufai EFCC custody for the third straight day as fresh details emerge over a stalled bail arrangement and new charges filed by security agencies.
According to a report by , the former governor’s continued detention followed complications surrounding his administrative bail and allegations of intimidation directed at a proposed surety.
El-Rufai is currently under investigation by the over claims that he misappropriated more than ₦433 billion during his eight-year tenure as Kaduna State governor.
Bail Process Stalls as Permanent Secretary Withdraws
Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that the anti-graft agency initially granted El-Rufai administrative bail. However, the conditions required a Permanent Secretary and a Director in a federal ministry to stand as sureties.
Although the Permanent Secretary reportedly appeared at the EFCC office to finalize the bail process, officials allegedly hesitated before ultimately declining to proceed with the arrangement. Shortly after, the official withdrew from the surety process.
Insiders claimed the withdrawal followed alleged threats, raising fresh concerns about possible interference and pressure linked to the case. Consequently, El-Rufai EFCC custody continues, despite what appeared to be progress toward his temporary release.
As of Wednesday morning, the anti-corruption agency had not issued an official public statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the failed bail arrangement.
ICPC Invitation in Limbo
Meanwhile, El-Rufai was scheduled to appear before the for questioning over separate corruption allegations.
However, uncertainty now surrounds that appearance due to his continued detention.
His legal team reportedly wrote to the ICPC to formally notify the commission that their client could not honour the invitation because he remains in EFCC custody. Legal observers say the situation presents a jurisdictional dilemma, especially as multiple agencies pursue separate investigations.
DSS Files Charges Over Alleged Phone Interception
In a dramatic twist, the has also filed criminal charges against El-Rufai at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The charges, marked FHC/CR/99/2026 and dated February 16, 2026, were filed in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. El-Rufai, 65, is listed as the sole defendant.
According to court documents cited by SaharaReporters, the prosecution alleges that El-Rufai made incriminating admissions during a televised interview on ’s Prime Time programme on February 13, 2026.
Details of the Three-Count Charge
The first count alleges that El-Rufai admitted to unlawfully intercepting the phone communications of the National Security Adviser, , an offence punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.
In the second count, prosecutors claim he acknowledged knowing and associating with individuals who allegedly intercepted the NSA’s communications without reporting them to security agencies, contrary to Section 27(b) of the same Act.
The third count accuses El-Rufai and “others still at large” of deploying technical systems that allegedly compromised public safety and national security by intercepting Ribadu’s communications. Prosecutors cited Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.
Legal representatives listed for the prosecution include Ernest O.M., Owan O.M., U.M. Bulla, C.S. Eze (PhD), and E.G. Orubor, all acting on behalf of the DSS.
Political and Legal Implications
The deepening El-Rufai EFCC custody situation signals a widening legal storm for the former governor. With simultaneous probes by the EFCC and ICPC, alongside active DSS prosecution, the case now spans corruption, cybercrime, and alleged national security breaches.
Political analysts say the development could reshape power dynamics within Kaduna State and beyond. El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, served two terms as governor and has remained vocal in national discourse.
However, as legal proceedings unfold, attention will likely shift to the courts, where prosecutors must substantiate their claims. Meanwhile, El-Rufai’s legal team is expected to challenge both the detention and the charges in the coming days.
For now, El-Rufai EFCC custody continues, with no confirmed timeline for his release or arraignment.
SaharaReporters first reported the latest developments.
What Happens Next?
Legal experts anticipate one of three immediate outcomes:
- Formal arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
- A renewed bail attempt with alternative sureties.
- Possible inter-agency coordination between EFCC and ICPC regarding custody and questioning.
Until then, the political class and the public remain on edge as events continue to unfold.
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