ABUJA — The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has granted a temporary compassionate release to the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, following weeks in detention.

The release is intended to allow the former governor to attend the funeral rites of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, who reportedly passed away in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday.

Temporary Bail Amid Bereavement

An aide to El-Rufai confirmed the development, noting that the anti-graft agency approved the temporary bail on humanitarian grounds following the family’s loss. While the specific legal conditions attached to the release remains undisclosed, it is understood that the reprieve is tied to the immediate funeral proceedings.

As of the time of reporting, the ICPC has not issued an official statement regarding the specific charges leading to El-Rufai’s detention or the formal terms of this temporary exit.

Family Reaction and Criticism

The former governor's son, Bashir El-Rufai, announced the release via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he voiced strong criticism of the commission's actions.

"My beloved great legend of a father is being released from his unlawful and illegal detention at the hands of one of the most corrupt agencies in the Federal Republic of Nigeria," Bashir stated.

He further characterized the institution as "pathetic," adding that the family remains resilient despite the ordeal. "Our family shall never forget these times. We have overcome, as the El-Rufais," he wrote.

Political Context

Nasir El-Rufai, who served as the Governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, remains one of Nigeria’s most influential and often polarizing political figures.

It remains unclear whether El-Rufai is required to return to ICPC custody following the conclusion of the burial rites or if the temporary release will be transitioned into a permanent bail arrangement.