Why We Denied ADC Access To El-Rufai — ICPC Speaks Out

According to Ireporter Online, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has explained why it refused a request by leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to gain access to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who is currently in its custody.

The Commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, stated that the decision was guided strictly by an existing court order governing access to the former governor while he remains under investigation and trial proceedings. He noted that ICPC had formally communicated its decision to the ADC in an official letter dated May 21, 2026, which was received the following day.

The ADC had earlier alleged that its delegation, led by senior party figures including its national secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, and members of its policy and manifesto committee, Salihu Lukman, were denied entry despite prior notification. The party also claimed that the atmosphere at the facility became tense following the deployment of armed police officers, describing the situation as intimidating.

However, the ICPC dismissed the allegations, insisting that access to El-Rufai is strictly limited under the terms of the court directive. The Commission explained that only designated individuals—such as members of his family, his legal counsel, and medical personnel—are permitted to see him while in custody. It further stressed that the matter is already before both the State High Court in Kaduna and the Federal High Court, which remain fully seized of the case.

Odey also rejected claims of intimidation, clarifying that the presence of police officers at the facility is a standard security protocol and not targeted at any political group.