The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally closed its case against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the ongoing alleged wiretapping trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja, setting the stage for the defence to challenge the prosecution’s evidence through a no-case submission.
At Tuesday’s proceedings, prosecuting counsel, Oluwole Aladedoye (SAN), informed the court that the prosecution would not be presenting additional witnesses, bringing its case to a close.
Following the announcement, El-Rufai’s counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), notified the court of the defence’s intention to file a no-case submission — a legal application asking the court to dismiss the charges on the grounds that the prosecution failed to establish a case requiring the defendant to open a defence.
Erokoro requested two weeks to prepare and file the application, arguing that the evidence presented during the trial was insufficient to connect his client to the allegations before the court.
Responding, the prosecution asked for an additional two weeks to file its response once the defence submits its application.
Defence Seeks Relaxation of Bail Conditions
The defence team also urged the court to review and vary some of the bail conditions earlier granted to El-Rufai.
According to the application, the conditions requiring sureties who must be Level 17 civil servants and owners of landed property in Abuja’s Maitama or Asokoro districts were difficult to satisfy.
The defence further challenged the requirement for verification and attestation letters from the Kaduna State Traditional Council, describing the conditions as impractical.
However, the prosecution opposed the request and argued that eligible public officers capable of meeting the conditions exist, insisting there was no basis for the court to alter its earlier ruling.
Court Declines Request, Adjourns Proceedings
In her ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik refused the application seeking variation of bail conditions.
The judge held that qualified civil servants with property in the designated locations are available and concluded that the defence had not provided sufficient grounds for a review.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until September 22, 2026, for the filing and adoption of the no-case submission and continuation of proceedings.
The latest development marks a significant stage in the trial, as the court will next determine whether the prosecution has presented enough evidence to require El-Rufai to enter a formal defence.
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