Court approves medical care for El-Rufai in ICPC custody

A Federal High Court in Kaduna has granted former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, permission to access medical treatment while being held in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The approval was given on Wednesday by Justice Rilwan Aikawa during proceedings in the ongoing corruption and money laundering case involving the former governor and a co-defendant, Joel Adoga.

El-Rufai and Adoga are facing a 10-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering, possession of proceeds of corruption and unlawful conversion of funds, contrary to provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The two defendants had earlier pleaded not guilty to all charges.

According to a statement issued by ICPC spokesperson, John Odey, the defence counsel appealed to the court on humanitarian grounds, requesting that El-Rufai be allowed access to dental and eye treatment in Abuja.

The defence specifically sought approval for the former governor to receive treatment at Mile Dental Clinic and Skipper Eye-Q Hospital.

In his ruling, Justice Aikawa directed the ICPC to escort El-Rufai to the medical facilities whenever necessary under strict supervision and ensure his immediate return to custody after treatment.

The judge emphasised that all movements connected to the medical visits must remain under the commission’s supervision.

The ICPC assured the court that it would comply fully with the order while maintaining lawful custody of the defendant until he meets his bail conditions.

Earlier, the court admitted El-Rufai to bail in the sum of N200 million with two sureties in like sum, while the administrative bail granted to the second defendant was upheld.

The case was adjourned to May 7, 2026, for ruling on the application seeking variation of the bail terms.