The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of violating the conditions of a court-approved medical visit while in its custody, alleging that the exercise was used for activities beyond the purpose approved by the court.
The anti-graft agency also confirmed the arrest of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, over alleged false statements made in connection with the medical visit, saying it would bring the alleged breach to the attention of the Kaduna State High Court.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, John Odey, the commission said it approved the former governor’s visit to the private wing of the National Hospital, Abuja, in compliance with a court directive and its obligation to safeguard the welfare of persons in custody.
According to the ICPC, the Kaduna State High Court had fixed July 6, 7 and 8 for the accelerated hearing of criminal charges against El-Rufai, but he failed to appear when proceedings commenced on the first day after requesting to see his personal physician.
The commission said it subsequently facilitated the hospital visit following the court’s directive.
The commission, however, alleged that photographs later circulated on social media showed El-Rufai receiving visitors, including political associates and his personal physician, during the period approved solely for medical consultation.
“The visit was approved strictly for medical purposes. Activities observed during the visit exceeded the scope of the court’s approval and amounted to a breach of the conditions attached to the medical visit,” the commission said.
The ICPC said preliminary findings led to the arrest of Professor Abubakar, alleging that the physician made false statements regarding the circumstances surrounding the medical consultation.
It added that the matter would be brought before the trial court for appropriate consideration, stressing that while it remains committed to respecting the rights and welfare of suspects in its custody, such privileges must not be abused.
The latest development came as proceedings in El-Rufai’s trial before the Kaduna State High Court were adjourned until July 15, when the court is expected to hear his application seeking the recusal of the trial judge and determine his request for the transfer of the case.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) condemned the ICPC’s actions, describing the prosecution of the former governor as politically motivated.
In a statement, the party called for unrestricted access to medical care, legal representation and family members for El-Rufai, insisting that his fundamental rights should be protected throughout the trial.
El-Rufai is standing trial on a nine-count charge bordering on alleged abuse of office, fraud and money laundering. He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
