By Uzair Adam
Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has explained his decision to remain silent during interrogation by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), describing the investigation as politically motivated.
In written statements made under caution on February 19 and 20, 2026, while in ICPC custody and in the presence of his lawyer, Ubong E. Akpan, El-Rufai said his refusal to answer questions was deliberate and based on legal advice.
He maintained that he was exercising his constitutional right to silence and would only address any allegations before a competent court of law.
The former governor stated that after nearly two years of investigation, the anti-graft agency should present its findings before a judicial authority rather than seek further explanations from him.
He argued that only a judge could determine whether the probe amounted to political persecution.
El-Rufai, who served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, also outlined his educational and professional background in his initial statement, noting his studies at Ahmadu Bello University, as well as at Harvard University and the University of London.
He recounted his career in public service, including his roles as Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The ICPC had secured a 14-day remand order from a Chief Magistrate Court in Bwari to detain him, with the order set to expire on March 5, 2026.
Should the agency fail to file charges before then, he may regain his freedom upon the lapse of the court-approved detention.
In a follow-up statement dated February 20, El-Rufai reaffirmed his stance, stressing that he would not respond to additional documents or questions outside the courtroom, again citing his constitutional rights.
The development adds a new dimension to the ongoing standoff between the former governor and the anti-corruption agency, as attention now turns to whether formal charges will be filed before the remand period expires.
