The detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai, has sparked fresh political controversy. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of political persecution, while the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) defended its custody procedures and denied allegations of inhumane treatment.
ADC Raises Concerns Over El-Rufai's Health
The ADC expressed concern over el-Rufai's deteriorating health condition, citing reports that authorities denied him access to his doctors and prevented his wife from delivering food. In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described el-Rufai as a "political prisoner" and accused the President of using state institutions to silence opposition figures.
The ADC argued that el-Rufai voluntarily presented himself for investigation but faced prolonged detention and repeated court appearances. The party drew comparisons with former governors Yahaya Bello and Ifeanyi Okowa, who are no longer in detention despite facing similar allegations.
"What is happening to Mallam El-Rufai confirms that this detention is about politics, not justice," the statement added. The ADC warned that President Tinubu, the ICPC, and other agencies would be held responsible for any deterioration in el-Rufai's health.
ICPC Rejects Allegations
The ICPC dismissed claims that el-Rufai was denied food, medical access, or family visitation rights. Deputy Director J. Okor Odey said the allegations were "false and misleading." The controversy stemmed from a video interview in which one of el-Rufai's wives alleged that ICPC operatives denied her entry at 7:00 p.m. to deliver food.
The ICPC maintained that its access control policy permits visits between 9:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Odey stated that el-Rufai's wife and a housemaid were granted access on at least three occasions between 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. to deliver food. He added that the woman admitted arriving at 7:00 p.m., beyond approved hours, and acknowledged delivering breakfast and lunch earlier.
The Commission also disclosed that el-Rufai had visited his dentist and eye doctor under escort and had access to in-house medical facilities.
Political Motives Alleged
An APC chieftain in Kaduna State alleged that el-Rufai's ordeal is linked to political developments ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Speaking anonymously, the source claimed that fears of el-Rufai becoming Peter Obi's running mate were central to his prolonged detention.
The source said tensions escalated after el-Rufai allegedly posted the "actual result" of the 2023 election on Facebook and declared President Tinubu a one-term president. The Federal Government reportedly became concerned over reports that el-Rufai and Obi were exploring political platforms for 2027.
"By the time he was doing all that, the government had learned that he wants to run for the 2027 presidency with Peter Obi," the source said. The source added that although el-Rufai was granted bail by a Federal High Court, his future political participation remains limited due to the ongoing legal situation.
