ICPC Denies Nosebleed Incident Involving Former Governor El-Rufai
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has officially refuted circulating reports claiming that former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai experienced a nosebleed while in their custody. The commission's spokesperson, Okor Odey, addressed the allegations during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, stating unequivocally that no such health incident occurred.
Commission Clarifies Detention Status and Investigation Progress
Odey further explained that El-Rufai remains in custody because investigations into serious allegations against him are still actively ongoing. The spokesperson emphasized that the former governor is in stable condition and will be formally charged once the probe reaches its conclusion. According to official statements, the specific details of the charges will only be made public after El-Rufai is arraigned before a competent court of jurisdiction.
The allegations originated from claims made by El-Rufai's aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, who suggested the former governor faced health challenges during his detention period. The ICPC has labeled these reports as entirely unfounded and without merit.
Dual Agency Investigation into Financial Impropriety Allegations
El-Rufai has been under investigation by both the ICPC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concerning alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as Kaduna State governor from 2015 to 2023. The former governor was initially held by the EFCC for two nights before being transferred to ICPC custody on February 18.
The investigations follow a 2024 report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly that indicted El-Rufai for allegedly diverting N432 billion in public funds and engaging in money laundering activities. The legislative body subsequently recommended his prosecution based on their findings.
Public Response and Legal Developments
Youth groups across Kaduna State organized coordinated protests demanding El-Rufai's immediate release. Demonstrators gathered at key locations in Kaduna metropolis and Southern Kaduna, displaying placards with messages such as:
- "Free El-Rufai Now"
- "Justice for Our Leader"
- "Kaduna Demands Governance, not Revenge"
Meanwhile, legal proceedings continue with a Federal High Court in Abuja adjourning the hearing of a separate case involving the Department of State Services (DSS). The secret police had filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai alleging he wiretapped telephone conversations of the National Security Adviser.
In related developments, the ICPC has reportedly denied a bail application submitted by El-Rufai's legal team. The anti-graft agency has not responded to the bail request letter, according to sources close to the matter. The continued detention has raised concerns among the former governor's legal representatives and family members.
The situation remains fluid as investigations progress, with both anti-corruption agencies working to complete their probes before formal charges are filed in court.
