March 28, 2026 l By Dalena Reporters
Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has released former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai after weeks in detention, granting him temporary freedom to attend the burial of his late mother.
The development follows the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, whose passing occurred while the former governor remained in custody amid ongoing legal proceedings. Authorities approved his release on compassionate grounds to enable him participate in funeral rites.
El-Rufai had been detained for several weeks over allegations linked to corruption and related offences, with the ICPC reportedly arraigning him before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on multiple charges. He has denied all allegations, pleading not guilty during court proceedings.
The temporary release has drawn mixed reactions from observers, with some viewing it as a humanitarian gesture while others continue to raise concerns about the broader legal battle facing the former governor.
Sources indicate that the release is not a full acquittal, as legal proceedings are expected to continue after the burial, with the court scheduled to hear further arguments on his bail application in the coming days.
The situation continues to attract national attention, highlighting both the personal tragedy faced by the former governor and the ongoing anti-corruption efforts by Nigerian authorities.