ICPC: We Denied ADC Leaders Access to Nasir El-Rufai Based on Subsisting Court Order
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At a glance
- The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) denied African Democratic Congress (ADC) leaders access to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
- ICPC spokesperson John Odey stated the denial was in compliance with a subsisting court order that limits access to El-Rufai's immediate family, legal counsel, and doctors.
- The ICPC refuted claims that ADC leaders were harassed or intimidated, explaining that security at their headquarters is routine.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has defended its decision to deny leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) access to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The commission insists its action was in strict adherence to a subsisting court order.
Yes, we denied them. They wrote to us saying that they wanted to come and visit El-Rufai. They listed those people who came: Aregbesola, Bolaji Abdullahi, and others.
ICPC spokesperson John Odey clarified that the court order specifically permits only El-Rufai's immediate family members, legal counsel, and medical doctors to visit him. He stated that the ADC's request, which included specific party leaders, did not fall within the court-approved categories for access.
The access is limited to the category of his immediate family members, his legal counsel, and his medical doctors. Based on the court order, under the circumstances, we are not able to grant them their request to visit.
Odey confirmed that the ICPC had formally responded to the ADC's request, informing them of the court's restrictions prior to their visit. He asserted that the party received this communication, refuting allegations that they were not informed. The ICPC emphasized its apolitical stance, stating that the presence of armed police officers at its headquarters is a standard security measure and not intended to intimidate visitors.
The letter was given to them, and it was stamped that they received it.
The commission reiterated its commitment to obeying the court's directive, ensuring that access to the former governor remains strictly limited as per the legal ruling. The ICPC maintains that it is acting lawfully and prioritizing El-Rufai's safety while in its custody.
No, no, no. They were not harassed. No harassment whatsoever. They were not intimidated.
Originally published by ThisDay. Summarized and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.