Nasir El-Rufai alleges plot to implicate him ahead of bail ruling

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has alleged a fresh plot to implicate him in criminal activities, warning of what he described as coordinated efforts to damage his reputation and frustrate his release on bail.

El-Rufai is expected to appear before the Kaduna State High Court on April 21 for a ruling on his bail application, following earlier arguments by legal counsel before Justice Darius Khobo.

In a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, the former governor claimed there were “malicious orchestrations” aimed at ensuring his continued detention. He recalled an incident in February 2026, when he alleged there were plans to arrest him upon arrival at the Abuja airport from Cairo, describing it as the beginning of a troubling pattern.

According to the statement, El-Rufai honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16, after which he was detained and later transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

His camp also rejected claims contained in a media report alleging that gunmen attacked the residence of a principal witness in the ongoing trial. The witness had reportedly linked the incident to his involvement in the case and suggested it could be an attempt to silence him.

El-Rufai denied any connection to the alleged attack, describing the claims as false and defamatory. He argued that the publication was intended to tarnish his image and weaken his chances of securing bail.

The former governor said he had directed his legal team to initiate defamation proceedings against the newspaper involved, while maintaining his innocence in the matter.

The statement further alleged that since leaving office in 2023, El-Rufai has faced sustained attempts to discredit him, warning against the misuse of legal processes and calling for adherence to due process and the rule of law.