The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed concerns over the decision by supporters of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai to hire a United States-based lobbying firm to campaign against his prosecution.
The anti-corruption agency insisted that El-Rufai’s detention and prosecution are being conducted strictly in accordance with the law and not for political reasons.
Why El-Rufai’s Supporters Hired US Lobbyists
According to reports, the El-Rufai Support Group Association engaged Vanguard Africa, a Washington D.C.-based advocacy firm, to raise concerns before US lawmakers, government agencies, and international organizations.
The group alleged that El-Rufai’s prosecution reflects a decline in the rule of law and due process in Nigeria.
ICPC Responds
Reacting to the development, ICPC spokesperson John Odey said the commission remains focused on its legal mandate and is not troubled by the international campaign.
Key Quote from ICPC
“We are not moved. We operate within the confines of the law. The ICPC is not moved at all.”
Odey further stated:
“We operate within the confines of the law and will continue to carry out our functions within the confines of the law. We are not detaining him on our own. We are following lawful orders.”
He added:
“He is in our custody by court remand. So, we don’t have any issues with that. It’s a free world, it’s a free society, but people must operate within the confines of the law.”
ICPC Rejects Political Allegations
The commission also rejected claims that the case is politically motivated.
“No, we are not political. The ICPC is not political. It has never been and never will be.”
Odey continued:
“The ICPC is an anti-corruption law enforcement agency. We have an Act that guides our operations.”
Fresh Allegations from El-Rufai’s Family
The development comes after El-Rufai’s son, Mohammed Bello, reportedly accused the ICPC of denying his father access to adequate medical care while in detention.
The family also alleged that certain court directives relating to his detention had not been fully complied with.
Background
El-Rufai is currently facing multiple charges relating to alleged fraud and abuse of office. His legal team has repeatedly argued that the prosecution is politically motivated, while the ICPC maintains that all actions taken against him are based on lawful court orders and statutory provisions.
