The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has released former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, after weeks in detention over corruption-related charges.
El-Rufai, who had been in custody since February 19, was initially detained following a 48-hour interrogation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
He was later arraigned by the ICPC on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public property and money laundering before a Federal High Court in Kaduna, which adjourned his bail application to March 31.
However, in a dramatic turn, the anti-graft agency granted him release shortly after news emerged of his mother’s death in Cairo, Egypt. Sources close to the family indicate the decision was made on compassionate grounds, as arrangements are underway to repatriate her remains to Nigeria.
Confirming the development, El-Rufai’s son, Bashir, said the former governor had regained his freedom, while an associate also corroborated the release but declined further details.
El-Rufai has consistently denied all allegations against him.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have extended condolences to the former governor over his loss.
The development has stirred mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether the episode reflects justice tempered with empathy or privilege at play among the political elite.
