ICPC Denies Political Motive, Says El-Rufai Still in Custody Over Bail Conditions

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed claims of political motivation in the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, insisting that his custody is strictly a matter of law and compliance with bail conditions set by the court.

The Commission said El-Rufai remains in custody because he has not fulfilled the requirements attached to his bail, stressing that it is not disobeying any court order.

Spokesperson of the ICPC, J. Okor Odey, stated this on Monday while responding to questions from journalists during a press briefing in Abuja, where he emphasized that the Commission operates strictly within the confines of the law.

Odey maintained that the ICPC is not a political organisation and does not engage in political disputes or affiliations.

“The ICPC is not a political party. The ICPC does not play politics. It does not exist to play politics. The law establishing the ICPC is very clear,” he said.

He explained that El-Rufai is currently standing trial following his arraignment before a competent court, adding that the matter remains purely judicial in nature.

“The reason we have one of the most powerful courts is because allegations were made, charges were filed, and he has been arraigned. He is undergoing trial. He is a defendant in those matters,” Odey stated.

He further noted that the court itself had reiterated that the case should not be politicised, stressing that the proceedings are strictly legal and not influenced by partisan considerations.

According to him, suggestions that the Commission is targeting El-Rufai for political reasons are unfounded and misleading.

“We do not know his political party. ICPC does not have a political party. So why would the Commission be involved in politics?” he asked.

Odey also addressed concerns raised by supporters of the former governor, who alleged that he had been denied access to medical care while in custody.

He dismissed the claims, insisting that El-Rufai has been granted access to medical services and doctors of his choice.

“He has been allowed to go see his doctors of his choice. Before this incident, he went twice last week and ICPC took him there. He went and came back. He also has access to our in-house medical facilities,” he said.

The spokesperson further clarified that El-Rufai remains in custody because he has not met the bail conditions granted by the court.

Responding to reports that the Commission had ignored a court order for his release, Odey said such claims were inaccurate and misleading.

“The court granted him bail but he is yet to meet his bail conditions. If he meets those conditions, I am sure ICPC will release him immediately. We are not holding him unlawfully,” he stated.

He added that the Commission fully respects judicial authority and would comply once all legal requirements are satisfied.

Odey urged the public to disregard what he described as politically driven narratives aimed at misrepresenting the situation, insisting that due process is being followed.

The ICPC reaffirmed that its actions are guided strictly by law and judicial directives, not political considerations, and that El-Rufai’s continued custody is solely based on his failure to perfect his bail.