Nasir El‑Rufai Remains Detained After Bail, DSS Transfer Sparks Controversy

Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El‑Rufai was granted bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja, but was instead taken into custody by the Department of State Services (DSS). His family alleges the DSS transfer violated a court order that required him to remain under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). El‑Rufai’s second wife, Hasiat, said the family lives under constant threats, surveillance and phone tapping.

Legal analysts note that bail ordinarily requires immediate release unless new, separate charges justify continued detention. Authorities claim a different investigation warrants holding him, while critics argue the move undermines judicial authority and may reflect political overreach ahead of future elections. Civil‑rights groups are calling for transparency on the basis for the continued custody.