ICPC Arrests El-Rufai's Doctor, Alleges Former Kaduna Governor Misused Court-Approved Medical Visit
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested the personal physician of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, Professor Bello Abubakar, over allegations of making false statements during a court-approved medical visit.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission also accused El-Rufai of abusing the medical visit, which was approved while he remained in ICPC custody, describing the incident as a breach of the court's directive.
According to the ICPC, the Kaduna State High Court had scheduled July 6, 7 and 8, 2026, for the accelerated hearing of the criminal charges against the former governor. However, El-Rufai did not appear in court on the first day of proceedings.
The Commission said its officers were prepared to transport him to court, but he requested to see his personal physician before attending the hearing. It added that no prior request for the consultation had been submitted to the agency.
The ICPC further stated that its medical officer examined El-Rufai, who reportedly said he had no immediate health complaints but explained that his wife, Asia El-Rufai, who is also a member of his legal team, wanted him to consult his personal doctor.
Following arguments from both parties, the court adjourned the case to July 15, 2026, to hear El-Rufai's application seeking the trial judge's recusal and to await the Chief Judge's decision on a petition requesting the transfer of the case.
Despite the adjournment, the Commission said it approved the medical visit in line with the court's directive and its obligation to respect the rights and welfare of persons in custody.
The ICPC said the visit took place at the private wing of the National Hospital Abuja under security supervision. At the request of El-Rufai's family, officers reportedly remained outside the consultation room to allow for privacy during the examination.
However, the Commission said it later discovered photographs posted on Facebook by El-Rufai's political associate, Isa Ashiru Kudan, showing that a meeting had taken place during the period designated for the medical consultation.
According to the ICPC, the images featured Professor Bello Abubakar, Isa Ashiru Kudan and three other individuals with El-Rufai, prompting the Commission to conclude that the medical visit was used for activities beyond the purpose approved by the court.
The anti-corruption agency described the development as a violation of the court order, adding that it would bring the matter before the court. It also announced that Professor Bello Abubakar has been taken into custody for further investigation over alleged false statements.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to due process, stressing that while it would continue to act professionally and humanely, it would not tolerate any abuse of its goodwill or disregard for court directives.
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