Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has placed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on pre-action notice, signaling his intention to sue the anti-graft agency over what he described as unlawful detention, defamation and abuse of office.
In a letter dated March 4, 2026, and delivered to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja by his legal representatives, El-Rufai accused the ICPC of engaging in contempt of court, malicious prosecution and a media trial.
The move followed a press statement issued by the Commission on March 2, which his lawyers labeled “reckless” and “legally untenable.”
The former governor’s legal team argued that his constitutional right to remain silent during investigation was wrongly portrayed as non-cooperation.
They cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution guaranteeing the right of an accused person to remain silent and not have that silence used as evidence of guilt.
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El-Rufai reportedly challenged the agency to file formal charges if it has evidence against him, insisting he is prepared to defend himself in court.
A major contention in the notice is the validity of a remand order dated February 19, 2026, which the ICPC allegedly relied upon to detain him.
His lawyers claimed the order was issued by a Chief Magistrate Court lacking jurisdiction to entertain offences such as money laundering and abuse of office.
They referenced judicial precedents to argue that proceedings conducted without jurisdiction are null and void.
The letter further alleged that the remand order amounts to forgery under the FCT Penal Code and accused the Commission of attempting to manipulate public opinion through press releases rather than pursuing due legal process.
El-Rufai warned that unless the issues raised are addressed, he will commence full legal proceedings against the ICPC, its Chairman and officials involved, both in their official and personal capacities.
The development sets the stage for a potential legal showdown between the former governor and the anti-corruption agency, as tensions escalate over the ongoing investigation.
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