Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufa’i, has defended his decision not to respond to investigators, saying his silence was a conscious and strategic choice informed by his belief that the ongoing probe by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) is politically-driven.
In his written submissions to the anti-graft agency, el-Rufa’i described his refusal to answer questions as both a lawful exercise of his constitutional right and a form of resistance to what he considers a biased investigation. He stressed that he would only offer a defence if and when formal charges are brought before a court.
This position was detailed in two separate handwritten statements he made under caution on February 19 and 20, 2026, while in ICPC custody, with his lawyer, Ubong E. Akpan, present.
El-Rufa’i may regain his freedom on Thursday if the ICPC fails to file charges against him before the expiration of the court-approved remand order. The anti-graft agency had obtained a 14-day detention warrant from a Chief Magistrate Court in Bwari, which is due to lapse on March 5, 2026.
In his first statement dated 19 February, el-Rufa’i wrote in full: “I have read the above cautionary statement and I understand its meaning and implication. I wish to voluntarily state, in the presence of my lawyer, Ubong Akpan, Esq., from the chambers of Ubong Akpan. My name is Nasir Ahmad El-Rufa’i. I was born in Dandawa, Katsina State, in 1960, and grew up mostly in Kaduna State. I attended school in Kaduna, and went to Ahmadu Bello University from my first degree in Quantity Surveying. I also attended Harvard university and the University of London, among others. I studied Business Administration, Public Administration and Law, Public Administration and Law.
“My working career spans quantity surveying consulting, mobile telecommunications and public service. I was Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (1999–2003), Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (2003–2007) and twice- elected Governor of Kaduna State (2015–2023). I am retired, and live mostly in Egypt with half of my family and 96-year-old mother.
“I am a leading member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the only surviving opposition party in Nigeria, which is the real reason you are investigating me.
“In response to your question (and indeed all your questions), I have, on the advice of counsel, decided to exercise my right to silence. I will make no further statement or respond to any question. I believe that after nearly two years of intensive investigation, the ICPC should present its findings to a judicial tribunal and not to me. I will respond to any allegations in a court of law only. This is because I do not believe these investigations amount to lawful entitlement, as in political persecution, which only a judge can decide upon. Thank you”.
