Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has been released from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to enable him attend the funeral of his late mother, Umma El-Rufai.
The development was disclosed by his son, Bashir El-Rufai, in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) late Friday, where he also described his father’s detention as unlawful and expressed appreciation to supporters for their solidarity.
As of press time, the ICPC has yet to issue an official statement detailing the conditions or terms attached to the former governor’s temporary release, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the decision.
The passing of El-Rufai’s mother was earlier announced by her grandson, Bello El-Rufai, who confirmed that she died on Friday. The family has since called for prayers for the repose of her soul.
El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 18, following his transfer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. His legal troubles escalated earlier this week when he was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public assets and money laundering.
He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The presiding judge, Rilwanu Aikawa, subsequently adjourned hearing on his bail application to March 31 after listening to arguments from both prosecution and defence counsel.
The temporary release of the former governor, coming amid an ongoing trial, underscores the intersection of personal grief and legal proceedings, even as scrutiny mounts over the discretion exercised by anti-corruption authorities in such circumstances
ICPC Releases Nasir El-Rufai for Mother’s Burial Amid Ongoing Trial
