The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has leveled serious allegations against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), accusing the agency of blocking access to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
The outcry followed a Friday visit to the commission’s headquarters by senior party leaders, including National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, and National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who were reportedly denied entry to see the detained politician.
The party expressed deep concern that the restrictions surrounding El-Rufai’s custody are indicative of a coordinated effort to isolate and intimidate a prominent opposition figure.
According to a statement released by Bolaji Abdullahi, the situation at the ICPC headquarters escalated when three truckloads of armed police officers were deployed to the premises while the delegation waited for a response to their visitation request.
The ADC condemned this “show of force,” describing it as an inappropriate response to a peaceful inquiry by party officials.
The party maintained that its leaders acted with total professionalism and did not mobilize supporters or incite disorder, suggesting instead that the heavy security presence was an attempt by the state to suppress dissent and intimidate those questioning the treatment of opposition members.
The ADC’s intervention comes on the heels of alarming claims from El-Rufai’s family regarding his welfare in custody. His wife, Hajiya Asia El-Rufai, recently alleged that her husband has been denied access to his personal physicians and that she was prevented from delivering food to him.
The party further claimed that court-ordered medical access is being frustrated by administrative bottlenecks and “arbitrary protocols,” leading to what they described as “punishment by process.” They emphasized that El-Rufai is not a fugitive, having submitted himself voluntarily to the authorities.
In a formal letter addressed to ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, Rauf Aregbesola had previously requested visitation rights, citing growing fears over the former governor’s health and well-being.
Despite the ICPC’s assertions that due process is being strictly followed, the ADC argues that the continued refusal to allow visitors—including family, lawyers, and political associates—is fueling public suspicion.
The party insists that under the Nigerian Constitution, every detainee is entitled to basic dignity and fair treatment, regardless of the allegations against them.
The ADC concluded its statement with a stern warning to the federal government and anti-graft institutions, demanding immediate and unrestricted access to the former governor.
The party stated it would not remain silent while its leaders are subjected to “calculated humiliation” and harassment.
Asserting that the international community is monitoring the situation closely, the ADC cautioned that the current handling of El-Rufai’s detention risks cementing the perception that state institutions are being weaponized to silence voices of the opposition.
