The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed reports suggesting that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, experienced a nosebleed while in its custody.
The clarification comes amid claims by El-Rufai’s spokesperson, who said the former governor had a health issue while being detained.
ICPC’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, stated unequivocally that the reports were false.
“The allegation that he (El-Rufai) bled from his nose yesterday while in the custody of the ICPC is not true,” he said, stressing that the commission is committed to treating all detainees according to legal and medical standards.
El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 18, following his brief detention at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he spent two nights.
His extended detention has drawn public attention, raising questions about procedures and transparency in handling high-profile political figures.
According to El-Rufai’s spokesperson, Muyiwa Adekeye, the former governor’s legal team had not been presented with any remand order authorizing detention beyond 48 hours without formal charges.
Adekeye also alleged that El-Rufai’s family faced restrictions in accessing him, citing an instance when one of his wives was reportedly prevented from delivering his meal directly and had to hand it over through commission personnel.
He further claimed that El-Rufai experienced a nosebleed overnight, which sparked concern among supporters and the public.
While these claims circulated widely, ICPC maintains that all procedures have been properly followed and that El-Rufai’s well-being is not compromised.
The commission reiterated that no medical incident occurred and that the former governor continues to receive proper treatment and attention while in custody.
Both ICPC and EFCC are investigating El-Rufai over allegations of financial impropriety during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023.
The probes focus on possible diversion of state funds and money laundering.
In 2024, the Kaduna State House of Assembly formally indicted El-Rufai for allegedly diverting N432 billion in public funds and recommended his prosecution, intensifying public scrutiny over his administration’s financial management.
Legal experts note that while investigations into former officials are necessary for accountability, detention protocols must strictly adhere to Nigeria’s legal framework.
Proper documentation, including remand orders and access for lawyers and family, is essential to avoid disputes over legality or allegations of mistreatment.
The ICPC’s denial aims to ensure clarity and prevent misinformation from overshadowing the main focus of the probe.
The handling of El-Rufai’s case highlights the challenges faced by anti-graft agencies when dealing with politically prominent figures.
Public interest is naturally high, and any hint of procedural irregularities or health issues can lead to sensational reporting.
ICPC’s statement serves both to protect the credibility of its investigation and to reassure the public that due process is being observed.
Political observers also point out that the case has broader implications.
El-Rufai remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics, and allegations of corruption from his tenure continue to influence public perception.
The outcomes of the ongoing investigations could affect trust in both political institutions and anti-corruption agencies, while also setting precedents for how future cases involving high-profile officials are managed.
In addition to addressing the alleged nosebleed, ICPC has emphasized that El-Rufai has access to legal counsel, and the commission ensures that detainees’ rights are respected.
By refuting unverified claims promptly, the agency seeks to maintain transparency and prevent speculation from interfering with its investigative work.
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