The former Kaduna governor’s family says his constitutional rights are being violated amid continued detention.
Tension is mounting over the detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, after his family accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of violating his fundamental human rights.
In a strongly worded statement, the family alleged that El-Rufai has been denied proper medical attention while access to food deliveries has also been severely restricted during his detention. They described the situation as unlawful and dangerous to his health condition.
The family further claimed that the anti-graft agency no longer has valid legal grounds to continue holding the former governor, insisting that the original remand order had already expired. According to them, El-Rufai has not been formally charged before a competent court despite spending weeks in custody.
The controversy has sparked fresh political debate nationwide, with supporters of the former governor accusing authorities of political intimidation, while critics insist anti-corruption agencies must be allowed to carry out investigations without interference.
Political observers say the situation could further deepen tensions within Nigeria’s political space, especially considering El-Rufai’s influence in northern politics and his recent political disagreements with key power blocs.
As reactions continue to pour in, the ICPC is yet to issue a detailed response addressing the latest allegations raised by the former governor’s family.