A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has rejected an application by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, seeking a review of the bail conditions imposed on him in the ongoing alleged wiretapping trial.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, who presided over the matter, ruled that the existing bail conditions would remain in force, dismissing the defence’s request for adjustment. The defence had argued that the conditions, which require sureties to be Level 17 civil servants with properties in Maitama or Asokoro and supported by attestation letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council, were too stringent.

‎In her ruling, the judge held that qualified sureties capable of meeting the requirements were available and therefore saw no reason to vary the bail terms.

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) formally closed its case against El-Rufai during the proceedings. Prosecuting counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye, informed the court that the prosecution had concluded the presentation of its evidence and would not be calling additional witnesses.

Responding, defence counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), disclosed plans to file a no-case submission, contending that the prosecution had failed to establish sufficient evidence to warrant the former governor entering a defence.

‎Following submissions from both parties, the court granted them two weeks to file the necessary processes and subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22, 2026, for the hearing of the no-case submission and continuation of proceedings.