**El-Rufai's Lawyer Accuses ICPC of Politically Motivated Case, Demands Immediate Release** In a dramatic turn of events, the lawyer for former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has fired back at the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), accusing the anti-corruption agency of conducting a politically motivated campaign against his client. According to the lawyer, Ubong Esop Akpan, the allegations linking El-Rufai to multi-billion naira properties in Egypt are nothing but a smear campaign designed to tarnish the former governor's reputation. Akpan claims that the ICPC's actions are a desperate attempt to justify the unlawful detention of his client. The controversy began when El-Rufai voluntarily reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, 2026, where he was granted administrative bail. However, the former governor was later transferred to ICPC custody on February 18, allegedly on the orders of the Department of State Services (DSS). Akpan argues that El-Rufai's detention has now lasted over 20 days without any formal charges being brought against him. The lawyer claims that this contravenes Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution, which requires arraignment within a reasonable time. Furthermore, Akpan alleges that a 14-day remand order allegedly issued by a magistrate court on February 19 expired on March 4, but was never served on either El-Rufai or his legal team. The ICPC's actions have been met with widespread criticism, with many accusing the agency of using its powers to target perceived political enemies. As the controversy continues to unfold, many are watching closely to see how the case will play out.