The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has responded to claims by the African Democratic Congress that its leadership was denied access to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The ADC had earlier alleged that officials of the party were prevented from seeing el-Rufai, describing the restriction as part of concerns over alleged political persecution.
The party also claimed that members of his family said he had been denied access to doctors, food, and visitors, despite what it said was his voluntary appearance before authorities.
However, ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey dismissed the allegations, insisting the party’s request was rejected in line with a valid court order.
He said the commission formally communicated its position in a letter dated May 21, 2026, which was received the following day.
Odey stated, “We wrote them an official letter declining their request to visit. The reasons are in the letter. The category of persons we are to give access is clear in the court order,” Odey said.
In the letter signed by S. Yahaya, director of operations, the ICPC clarified el-Rufai’s legal status and custody arrangement, noting that, “Though the defendant is in the Commission’s custody by order of both courts, the court is fully seised of the matter,” the letter reads.
It further stated, “The court has granted access to the defendant to his family, doctors and counsel. These are the only category of persons granted access to see the defendant in the Commission’s custody. Consequently, the application cannot be granted.
“Please accept the assurances of the Hon. Chairman’s best regards.”
Odey also explained that the presence of police officers at the ICPC gate was a standard security arrangement and not connected to any extraordinary situation.
