Veteran journalist and former presidential spokesman, Reuben Abati, has suggested that former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, may remain in custody until after the forthcoming election, describing his ongoing legal battle as one with both judicial and political implications.
Abati made the remarks on Wednesday during a discussion on Arise Television’s Morning Show while reacting to the bail conditions imposed on the former governor.
According to him, the requirements attached to El-Rufai’s bail were particularly stringent and could make his release difficult in the short term.
Commenting on the matter, Abati noted that El-Rufai had been asked to provide a Level 17 official in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as surety, a condition he described as difficult to meet.
“The bail conditions for El-Rufai are very stringent. He has been asked to produce a Level 17 official from the Federal Capital Territory, and he says he does not have one. The court, on its part, is not willing to vary the conditions,” Abati said.
He observed that the case extends beyond the issue of bail and involves multiple allegations, including claims relating to wiretapping and corruption.
‘There Is Politics Involved’
Abati further argued that the developments surrounding the case appear to carry political undertones in addition to the legal proceedings.
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He noted that the matter had been adjourned until September, adding that the timing of the proceedings could influence how events unfold.
“It’s a very complex case. There are allegations involving wiretapping and corruption, and the matter has now been adjourned till September,” he said.
The veteran broadcaster maintained that while the court has the authority to determine bail terms, the broader circumstances surrounding the case suggest that political considerations may also be at play.
“So the way it looks in terms of real politics, I don’t think they will do anything about releasing Nasir El-Rufai until after the election,” Abati stated.
He, however, stressed that the matter also touches on issues of accountability and responsibility, noting that courts are empowered to impose conditions they consider appropriate, regardless of whether a defendant finds them difficult to satisfy.