The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, of abusing a court-approved medical visit while in its custody, describing the action as a violation of a court order.
The anti-corruption agency also confirmed the arrest of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, alleging that he made false statements in connection with the medical visit.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ICPC said 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 the proceedings.
According to the Commission, when officers prepared to transport him to court, El-Rufai requested to see his personal physician before attending the hearing.
The ICPC said its medical personnel assessed the former governor, who reportedly stated that he had no immediate medical complaints but wished to consult his doctor at the request of his wife, Asia El-Rufai, who is also one of his legal counsel.
Following submissions from both parties, the court adjourned the case to July 15, 2026, to hear El-Rufai’s application seeking the recusal of the trial judge and to await the decision of the Chief Judge of Kaduna State on a pending petition requesting the transfer of the case.
The Commission stated that it subsequently approved the medical visit in compliance with the court’s directives and in line with its obligation to safeguard the welfare and rights of persons in its custody.
According to the ICPC, the consultation took place on Tuesday at the private wing of the National Hospital, Abuja, under appropriate security arrangements. The agency added that its officers respected El-Rufai’s privacy by remaining outside the consultation room at the request of his family.
The Commission maintained that it would present the alleged breach of the court-approved medical arrangement before the court as part of the ongoing proceedings.
