ADC chieftain Okai urges ICPC to charge El-Rufai or release him
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Usman Okai Austin, has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to either file formal charges against former
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Usman Okai Austin, has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to either file formal charges against former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, or release him in accordance with due process.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Okai called on the commission to ensure that its actions align with established legal procedures. He referenced the approach of the Department of State Services (DSS), which he said opted to seek judicial determination in a related matter.
Okai maintained that matters of investigation and prosecution should be resolved through the courts, where arguments can be tested on their merits.
He noted that El-Rufai had previously honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing it as a demonstration of his willingness to cooperate with authorities.
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The ADC chieftain also called for clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s transfer between agencies, stating that transparency is essential to maintaining public confidence in the justice system.
He emphasised that adherence to due process and respect for legal rights remain central to the credibility of anti-corruption efforts, urging the ICPC to ensure that any case against the former governor is addressed through appropriate judicial channels.
The statement read, “Detaining a suspect before commencing an investigation is a gross abuse of the right to a fair hearing,” the statement concluded. The ICPC must uphold the standards of a civilized society. If there is a case against El-Rufai, argue it in court; if not, he must be released immediately.”