The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has informed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that its leaders cannot be granted access to visit former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who is currently in its custody.
This follows an earlier report that three ADC leaders, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the party’s national secretary; Malam Bolaji Abdulahi, the party’s spokesperson; and Mallam Salihu Lukman, secretary of the ADC Policy and Manifesto Committee, were denied access to El-Rufai on Friday.
In a strongly worded statement, the party had earlier written to the ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), requesting visitation rights, citing concerns raised by El-Rufai’s family over alleged denial of access to doctors and food.
The ADC also warned that “Nigeria and the world are watching,” alleging that the former governor was being subjected to intimidation and political persecution, while threatening nationwide mobilisation if access continued to be denied.
However, in a formal response addressed to ADC chieftain Rauf Aregbesola, the ICPC Chairman explained the commission’s position, stating that access could not be granted. The letter, signed by the Director of Operations, S. Yahaya, read:
“RE: PLANNED VISIT TO MALLAM NASIR EL-RUFAI
“Your request in respect of the above subject matter refers.
“Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is standing trial before two courts i.e. the State High Court of Justice Kaduna and Federal High Court of Nigeria both sitting in Kaduna, Kaduna State.
Nigerian security reports
“Though, the defendant is in the Commission’s custody by order of both courts, the court is fully seised of the matter. The court has granted access to the defendant to his family, doctors and counsels. These are the only category of persons granted access to see the defendant in the Commission’s custody.
“Consequently, the application cannot be granted. Please accept the assurances of the Hon. Chairman’s best regards, please.”
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