ADC Chieftain Urges ICPC to Charge or Release El-Rufai
Usman Austin, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to formally charge former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai in court or release him immediately.
In a statement released on Saturday, Austin voiced deep concern over the continued detention of El-Rufai and urged the anti-graft agency to strictly follow due legal process.
He contrasted the ICPC’s approach with that of the Department of State Services (DSS), commending the DSS for opting to seek judicial intervention in similar matters.
“The decision of the DSS to approach a court of law rather than resorting to arbitrary detention is both civil and democratic.
“The DSS has shown that the proper way to handle such matters is to let the court decide through merit-based arguments from both the prosecutor and the defendant,” Austin stated.
Austin stressed that any allegations leveled against the former governor should be addressed within the confines of a courtroom.
He also pointed out that El-Rufai had previously honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing him as cooperative with investigative authorities.
“The EFCC is yet to explain the circumstances of this custody—whether Mallam El-Rufai was officially handed over to the ICPC or if he was re-arrested after being granted administrative bail. This ambiguity undermines the rule of law,” Austin added.
Reiterating the importance of international best practices and the presumption of innocence, Austin warned against the practice of “arresting someone before commencing an investigation,” calling it a gross abuse of the right to a fair hearing.
“Anti-corruption agencies must not allow themselves to become willing tools of oppression if they wish to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
“The ICPC must uphold the standards of a civilised society. If there is a case against El-Rufai, let it be argued in court. If not, he must be released immediately,” he declared.
El-Rufai was taken into custody by ICPC operatives on Wednesday, shortly after his release from the EFCC. The former governor had initially arrived at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja on Monday morning for questioning and was held until Wednesday.
The ICPC confirmed on Wednesday via a statement by its Head of Media and Public Communications, John Odey, that El-Rufai was currently in its custody in connection with an ongoing investigation.
