A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has approved a request by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to access medical care while in custody, granting him permission to undergo dental and eye treatment at designated facilities under strict supervision.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Rilwan Aikawa during proceedings on Wednesday, followed an application by the defence, which informed the court of the defendant’s need for specialised medical attention that could not be adequately provided within the custodial environment. The court held that the request was justified on medical grounds but must be implemented within tightly controlled conditions to preserve the integrity of the ongoing trial.
Under the terms of the order, El-Rufai is to be escorted by officials of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to approved healthcare facilities in Abuja for the required treatment. The court directed that all visits must be supervised, limited strictly to medical purposes, and followed by his immediate return to custody upon completion of each appointment.
The defence had specifically indicated that the former governor requires urgent dental evaluation as well as ophthalmic care, raising concerns that delays in treatment could worsen his condition. Counsel argued that access to proper healthcare is a fundamental right, even for individuals undergoing trial, and urged the court to intervene in the interest of justice and human dignity.
Justice Aikawa, in his ruling, acknowledged the constitutional and humanitarian considerations surrounding access to healthcare for detainees. He stated that while the court must ensure that the defendant’s health is not compromised, it also has a duty to prevent any situation that could undermine judicial proceedings or allow for potential misuse of the privilege granted.
The judge stressed that the anti-corruption agency must ensure full compliance with the conditions attached to the order, noting that any breach could attract sanctions. He further warned that the arrangement should not be interpreted as a relaxation of custody conditions but rather a necessary accommodation based on medical need.
El-Rufai is currently standing trial alongside a co-defendant, Joel Adoga, on a 10-count charge involving allegations of corruption, money laundering, and unlawful possession of proceeds of crime. The charges, filed under Nigeria’s financial crime statutes, stem from transactions allegedly carried out during his tenure in public office. Both defendants have entered not guilty pleas and are contesting the allegations.
During the same court session, the defence also pursued a separate application seeking a review of the bail conditions earlier imposed on the former governor. The court had previously granted him bail in the sum of N200 million with two sureties in like sum, alongside additional requirements intended to guarantee his availability for trial.
Defence counsel argued that certain aspects of the bail terms were overly stringent and required adjustment to reflect current circumstances. They urged the court to adopt a more flexible approach that would still ensure compliance without imposing undue hardship on the defendant.
The prosecution opposed the request, maintaining that the existing bail conditions were appropriate given the seriousness of the charges and the need to secure the defendant’s attendance throughout the trial. A counter-affidavit was filed, urging the court to reject any attempt to dilute the terms.
After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Aikawa reserved ruling on the bail variation application, indicating that a decision would be delivered at the next adjourned date. The court emphasized that all arguments would be carefully considered in line with established legal principles.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has since reiterated its readiness to comply with the court’s directive on medical access. The agency affirmed that it remains committed to ensuring that the defendant is treated in accordance with the law while maintaining the highest standards of custodial supervision.
The case has continued to attract widespread attention due to El-Rufai’s high profile in Nigeria’s political landscape. His tenure as governor and subsequent involvement in national political discourse have made the proceedings a focal point for public and legal scrutiny.
Legal experts note that the court’s decision aligns with established jurisprudence that recognises the right of detainees to access necessary medical care. However, they also point out that such permissions are typically granted with strict safeguards, particularly in cases involving high-profile defendants and serious allegations.
The development highlights the judiciary’s effort to balance competing considerations, including the protection of individual rights and the need to uphold the rule of law. It also underscores the procedural complexities that often arise in high-stakes criminal trials, where legal, medical, and administrative issues intersect.
As proceedings continue, attention is expected to focus on both the substantive charges and the outcome of the pending bail variation request. The resolution of these matters will shape the next phase of the trial and determine the conditions under which the defendant will continue to participate in the legal process.
The court is expected to reconvene in the coming days to deliver its ruling on the outstanding application and proceed with further hearings in what remains a closely followed case within Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework.
