Arrest of Former Governor’s Physician Over Alleged Court Order Violation
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has taken a significant step in its ongoing investigation into the legal proceedings against former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai. The commission has arrested Professor Bello Abubakar, the personal physician of El-Rufai, over allegations of providing false statements linked to a court-approved medical visit.
In a recent statement, the ICPC spokesperson, John Okor Odey, revealed that the medical visit was used for purposes beyond those approved by the court. The commission plans to bring this matter to the attention of the Kaduna State High Court.
According to the ICPC, the High Court had scheduled July 6, 7, and 8 for the accelerated hearing of criminal charges against El-Rufai. However, the former governor did not appear in court on the first day of proceedings. The commission stated that its officers were prepared to take El-Rufai from custody to court, but he requested to see his personal physician instead.
Despite no prior request having been made, the ICPC approved the visit in compliance with the court’s directive and in line with its obligation to safeguard the welfare of persons in custody. The consultation took place yesterday in the private wing of the National Hospital, Abuja, where the commission’s medical and security personnel remained outside the consultation room at the request of El-Rufai’s family to respect his privacy.
However, the ICPC alleged that photographs later posted on Facebook by Isa Ashiru Kudan, described as a political associate of El-Rufai, showed Professor Abubakar, Kudan, and three other individuals with the former governor during the period approved for the medical consultation. These photographs suggested that the visit was used for activities outside the purpose for which it was approved, leading the commission to describe the development as a breach of the court order.
The ICPC said it would formally notify the court of the alleged violation and warned that it would no longer tolerate abuse of the professional courtesies extended to suspects and defendants in its custody. The commission also confirmed that Professor Abubakar was in custody and being investigated over alleged false statements made in connection with the incident.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The criminal proceedings were earlier adjourned until July 15 to hear El-Rufai’s application seeking the trial judge’s recusal and to await the Chief Judge of Kaduna State’s decision on a pending application for the transfer of the case.
This development highlights the complexities surrounding the legal battle involving El-Rufai, who is facing multiple charges related to corruption and other offenses. The arrest of his personal physician underscores the seriousness with which the ICPC is treating any potential breaches of court orders or misuse of official procedures.
As the case moves forward, the ICPC remains committed to ensuring that all legal processes are followed rigorously. The commission’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of judicial proceedings and the need for accountability at all levels.
With the upcoming adjournment date set for July 15, all parties involved will be closely watching how the court handles El-Rufai’s applications and the overall trajectory of the case.
