KADUNA, NIGERIA: A Kaduna State High Court has rejected a new bail application filed by the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, following revelations that the medical report submitted by his defense team was disowned by the National Hospital Abuja.

Presiding Judge Justice Darius Khobo denied the application, which had sought El-Rufai's release on health grounds. The defense had argued that the former governor required specialized out-of-country treatment for advanced metastatic prostate cancer, claiming such care was unavailable within Nigeria.

Key Developments in the Proceedings

• Hospital Disavows Document: Counsel for the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) presented evidence from the Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital Abuja, Muhammad Raji Mahmud, challenging the validity of the medical records.

• Database Discrepancy: ICPC investigators reported that a comprehensive search of the hospital’s electronic database and patient records showed no history of El-Rufai ever being registered, consulted, admitted, or treated at the facility.

• Unauthorized Issuance: The anti-graft agency stated that the medical document had been generated without the authorization or knowledge of the hospital's management.

Court Ruling and Directives

Justice Khobo ruled that a document formally disowned by its purported issuing institution could not form a legitimate basis for granting bail. Consequently, the application was dismissed.

However, the court ordered the ICPC to ensure the defendant maintains unrestricted access to his personal physicians. The commission was also directed to provide the necessary security escorts to transport El-Rufai to any specialized diagnostic or medical facility of his choice within Nigeria should the need arise during the course of the trial.

Ongoing Legal Challenges

El-Rufai is currently facing a nine-count charge including the alleged conferment of benefits under false pretenses and the dishonest disposal of loan funds during his tenure as governor. He has maintained a plea of not guilty to all charges.

This ruling marks the third unsuccessful bail attempt by the former governor, who remains in ICPC custody. He is simultaneously facing separate legal proceedings before the Federal High Court in Kaduna.