
ADC chieftain calls for due process in El-Rufai’s detention
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Usman Austin, has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to either charge former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to court or release him. Austin expressed concern over the ongoing detention of El-Rufai and stressed the importance of following legal procedures. He highlighted the need for transparency and clarity regarding the circumstances of El-Rufai’s custody. The call comes amid questions about the roles of the EFCC and ICPC in handling the case, with Austin emphasizing the protection of individual rights.
What we know
- Usman Austin urged the ICPC to either charge Nasir El-Rufai to court or release him, stressing due process.
- Austin referenced the Department of State Services’ approach of seeking judicial intervention in similar cases.
- He noted that El-Rufai had previously honoured an invitation from the EFCC and described him as cooperative.
- Austin questioned whether El-Rufai was officially handed over to the ICPC or re-arrested after being granted administrative bail.
- The ICPC confirmed that El-Rufai remains in its custody as of the close of work on February 18, 2026.