El-Rufai's lawyers have accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of violating their client's rights. The allegations include unlawful detention, fabrication of evidence, and inhuman treatment of one of El-Rufai's co-accused.
The ICPC reportedly filed charges against El-Rufai 35 days after his arrest and detention on February 16, 2026. Despite repeated demands, the Commission failed to charge him or release him. El-Rufai's lawyers described the situation as a "perversion of justice" and a "descent into brigandage."
The lawyers also accused the ICPC of falsely claiming to have recovered wiretapping equipment from El-Rufai's residence. They insisted that no such item appeared in the official inventory of seized materials, labelling the allegation a "contemptible fabrication."
The ICPC was accused of revoking the bail of one of El-Rufai's co-accused without justification, detaining him in solitary confinement, and denying access to his lawyers and family. The Commission was also accused of forcing the detainee to sign a new statement without legal representation.
The ICPC has yet to respond to the allegations.
The ICPC's alleged misconduct raises serious questions about the integrity of Nigeria's anti-corruption agencies. Mallam Nasir El-Rufai's lawyers are right to accuse the Commission of a perversion of justice and a descent into brigandage. The allegations of unlawful detention, fabrication of evidence, and inhuman treatment are particularly disturbing. The Nigerian public deserves to know the truth behind these claims and the ICPC's response to them. The ICPC must be held accountable for its actions and ensure that the rule of law is upheld in all its dealings.
