Breaking: ICPC Reveals Why It Blocked ADC Access To El-Rufai In Political Move

Speaking to The Cable, ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey said the decision was based on an existing court order governing access to the former governor while in custody.

This clarification follows accusations from the ADC, which alleged that its leaders were intimidated by heavy police deployment after being denied entry to see el-Rufai at a detention facility in Abuja on Friday.

In a statement issued by ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party claimed that a delegation led by National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, along with Salihu Lukman and others, was prevented from visiting the former governor despite prior communication and formal requests.

The party further alleged that tension escalated at the facility after several truckloads of armed police officers were stationed around the premises while they waited for access.

However, Odey said the Commission had already communicated its decision in an official letter dated May 21, 2026, which was received the following day.

According to him, the ICPC clearly stated that access was restricted in line with a court order defining who could visit the defendant.

The Commission’s letter, signed by Director of Operations S. Yahaya, explained that el-Rufai is currently standing trial before both the Kaduna State High Court and the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna.

It added that although he is in ICPC custody by court order, the judiciary remains fully in charge of the case.

The letter further noted that only his family members, doctors, and legal counsel are permitted access, stressing that the ADC delegation did not fall within the approved categories.

ICPC therefore rejected the request, reaffirming that its actions were strictly guided by judicial directives.

Odey also dismissed claims of intimidation, stating that the presence of police officers at the facility was part of standard security arrangements and not targeted at the ADC delegation.