The trial of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai took a new turn on Tuesday as the Department of State Services (DSS) closed its case against him, declaring that the evidence already presented was sufficient to prove the charges.
Counsel to the DSS, Oluwole Aladedoye, informed the court that the agency would not be calling additional witnesses.
In response, el-Rufai’s lead counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), announced that the defence would file a no-case submission, arguing that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against his client.
Erokoro requested a two-week adjournment to prepare and file the application. The request was not opposed by the prosecution, which also sought time to respond.
The defence also urged the court to relax the stringent bail conditions imposed on el-Rufai, describing them as overly restrictive and difficult to meet.
Erokoro particularly challenged the requirement for sureties who are Level 17 civil servants with properties in Maitama or Asokoro, as well as verification letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council.
DSS counsel, however, opposed any variation, insisting that the existing conditions should remain unchanged.
Ruling on the application, Justice Abdulmalik declined to modify the bail terms, noting that qualified individuals who meet the requirements could still be found.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter to September 22, 2026, for hearing of the no-case submission.
el-Rufai is facing a five-count amended charge filed by the DSS. The charges centre on allegations of unlawful interception of telephone conversations linked to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The case stems from remarks el-Rufai made during a television interview, in which he claimed that unidentified individuals had wiretapped the NSA’s phone, allowing him to overhear discussions concerning his planned arrest.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
