The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) opposes a bail application by Jimi Lawal, described as the second defendant and aide to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The matter is heard at the Federal High Court in Kaduna before Justice Hauwa’u Buhari, and the court adjourns the bail hearing to Friday, October 16, 2026.

ICPC counsel says a counter-affidavit has been filed in response to Lawal’s bail request, but does not disclose its contents ahead of arguments. The defence seeks bail on medical grounds, arguing Lawal’s health condition warrants release and noting he previously received administrative bail. The court also pushes the substantive case to December 8, after prosecution requests additional time to review a further affidavit filed by the defence.

Outlets report that new legal teams take over and ask for time to familiarise themselves with the case. El-Rufai appears in court under tight security. Both defendants remain presumed innocent, as proceedings have not yet begun and no witnesses have been called.