𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗘𝗹-𝗥𝘂𝗳𝗮𝗶 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝗺, 𝗔𝗗𝗖 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗜𝗖𝗣𝗖

An influential chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to respect due process in the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

The ADC figure, while addressing journalists, urged the anti-graft agency to either formally charge El-Rufai before a competent court of law or release him if there is insufficient evidence to justify continued detention. According to the party stalwart, the rule of law must guide anti-corruption investigations, regardless of the political status of the individual involved.

He noted that prolonged detention without trial could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system and fuel political tensions, stressing that anti-corruption efforts must remain transparent and free from political interference.

Reports indicate that El-Rufai has been under scrutiny over allegations relating to financial dealings during his tenure as governor. However, the ICPC has yet to publicly file formal charges, a development that has sparked debate among political stakeholders and civil society groups.

The ADC chieftain emphasized that accountability is essential but must be balanced with constitutional rights, warning that any perception of selective justice could undermine democratic institutions.

As of press time, the ICPC has not issued an official response to the demand, while political observers say the coming days may determine whether the case proceeds to court or takes a different legal direction.