El-Rufai Breaks Silence: “I Will Speak Only in Court” as ICPC Probe Deepens

Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has defended his decision to remain silent during questioning by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), describing the ongoing investigation as politically motivated.

In written responses submitted to ICPC operatives, El-Rufai said his refusal to answer questions was deliberate and grounded in his constitutional right to silence. He characterised his stance not only as a legal safeguard but also as a form of protest against what he believes is a politically driven probe.

The former governor made his position clear in two handwritten statements recorded under caution on February 19 and 20, 2026, while in ICPC custody and in the presence of his lawyer, Ubong E. Akpan.

“I have read the above cautionary statement and I understand its meaning and implication,” El-Rufai wrote in his first statement. He then provided personal and professional background details, noting that he was born in Dandawa, Katsina State, in 1960, raised largely in Kaduna, and educated at Ahmadu Bello University, with further studies at Harvard University and the University of London.

He outlined a career spanning private consultancy, telecommunications and public service, including roles as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (1999–2003), Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (2003–2007), and two-term Governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023.

El-Rufai further stated that he is now retired and resides primarily in Egypt with part of his family and his 96-year-old mother. He also identified himself as a leading member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he described as “the only surviving opposition party in Nigeria,” alleging that his political affiliation is the “real reason” behind the investigation.

Responding directly to the ICPC’s inquiries, he wrote:

“In response to your question (and indeed all your questions), I have, on the advice of counsel, decided to exercise my right to silence. I will make no further statement or respond to any question. I believe that after nearly two years of intensive investigation, the ICPC should present its findings to a judicial tribunal and not to me. I will respond to any allegations in a court of law only.”

He added that he does not consider the investigation to be a lawful process but rather an act of political persecution ,a matter he believes only a judge is competent to determine.

Meanwhile, the ICPC had obtained a 14-day detention warrant from a Chief Magistrate Court in Bwari, which is set to expire on March 5, 2026. Legal observers note that El-Rufai could regain his freedom if the anti-graft agency fails to file formal charges before the remand order lapses.

The development has intensified political debate, with supporters framing his silence as a constitutional right, while critics argue that public officials facing serious allegations should cooperate fully with investigative authorities.

As the deadline approaches, attention now shifts to the ICPC’s next move , whether it will proceed with formal charges or allow the remand order to expire ,a decision that could shape both the legal and political dimensions of the case.