Nasir El‑Rufai’s Detention: Family Says ICPC Blocks Doctor Visits and Food Deliveries

Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El‑Rufai is being held by Nigeria’s anti‑corruption body, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). On 15 May 2026 his son, Hon. Mohammed Bello El‑Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives, alleged that the ICPC prevented El‑Rufai’s personal doctor from seeing him at the agency’s offices, insisting on written permission from the ICPC chairman despite a court order granting unrestricted medical access.

The family also said El‑Rufai’s wife, identified as Aunty Aichatou, was turned away when she attempted to deliver his evening meal, after ICPC staff cited an internal directive prohibiting food deliveries after 6:30 pm. The statements described the actions as “an assault on the rule of law” and a breach of constitutional rights. The family called on the ICPC to comply with the court order and respect El‑Rufai’s rights, noting that the agency has not yet responded to the allegations.