The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has accused former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai of violating the terms of a court-approved medical leave.
Following the incident, the anti-graft agency arrested the former governor’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, on allegations of making false statements to the commission.
According to a statement by ICPC spokesperson John Odey, the controversy began when El-Rufai failed to appear at the Kaduna State High Court on July 6, 2026, for the scheduled accelerated hearing of his criminal charges. When officers arrived to transport him to court, the former governor declined, insisting he needed to see his personal doctor.
The prosecution informed the court that no prior medical request had been submitted.
When questioned by an ICPC doctor, El-Rufai reportedly admitted to having no immediate medical complaints, stating instead that his wife and legal counsel, Asia El-Rufai, had requested the consultation with Professor Abubakar.
The court subsequently adjourned the trial to July 15, 2026, and the ICPC approved the medical visit in compliance with the court’s directive.
The medical visit took place on July 7 at the private wing of the National Hospital in the Federal Capital Territory. At the request of El-Rufai’s family, ICPC security officers remained outside the consultation room to respect his privacy while an oncologist was reportedly examining him.
However, the commission later discovered photographs posted on Facebook by Isa Ashiru Kudan, a political associate of the former governor.
The images revealed El-Rufai socializing with several visitors including Kudan and Professor Abubakar during the exact window of time strictly designated for his medical consultation.
The ICPC strongly condemned the gathering, labeling it a clear violation of the court order and an exploitation of the agency’s goodwill.
The commission noted that the arranged medical visit was entirely utilized for unauthorized social and political activities.
The commission noted that as a direct result of the breach, Professor Abubakar was taken into custody for further investigation.
The anti-graft agency stated it would formally report El-Rufai’s disobedience to the court, issuing a stern warning that its patience, humane treatment, and professionalism should not be taken for granted or abused under any guise.