El-Rufai Reportedly Suffers Nosebleed in Custody, Wife Barred from Food Delivery
Former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai has allegedly suffered a nosebleed while in custody, according to his media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye. The incident occurred overnight, marking eight days since El-Rufai voluntarily honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16, 2026.
Restricted Access and Welfare Concerns
Adekeye further alleged that access to the former governor has been severely restricted. On February 17, one of El-Rufai's wives was reportedly stopped from delivering food directly to him. She was instructed to pass the meal through an EFCC official instead. Lawyers representing El-Rufai have cited both the nosebleed episode and the limited access to family and legal counsel as significant concerns regarding his welfare during detention.
El-Rufai was initially held by the EFCC before being transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on the night of February 18. According to his aide, neither El-Rufai nor his legal team received prior notification about this transfer, raising questions about procedural transparency.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Applications
His legal representatives have confirmed that they have submitted a bail application but have yet to receive any response from the authorities. They also assert that no remand order has been presented to justify holding him beyond the legally permissible period, potentially violating his rights.
A fundamental rights enforcement suit has been filed against the Federal Government, the ICPC, the EFCC, and the Department of State Services. This case is scheduled for hearing on February 25 at the FCT High Court, where the legal team will seek an order granting El-Rufai bail. Additionally, he is expected to be arraigned on the same day over charges reportedly filed by the DSS.
Challenges to Search Warrant Legality
Adekeye also revealed that El-Rufai has challenged the legality of a search conducted at his Abuja residence by ICPC officials on February 19. He argued that the warrant used was defective and violated his constitutional rights, adding another layer to the ongoing legal disputes surrounding his detention.
The situation continues to develop as court hearings approach, with El-Rufai's team emphasizing the need for proper medical attention and unrestricted access to family and legal support during his custody.
