The ICPC faces widespread criticism for releasing Nasir El-Rufai from custody on compassionate grounds despite a subsisting court order, sparking concerns over disregard for the rule of law.
Criticism has trailed the release of Nasir El-Rufai from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), despite a valid court order mandating his continued detention. Senior lawyer Femi Falana described the action as illegal, stressing that only the court has the authority to vary or overturn its remand order.
The ICPC reportedly released the former governor on compassionate grounds to allow him attend the burial of his mother, who died on Friday. However, legal experts including Inibehe Effiong questioned the procedure, noting that El-Rufai’s bail application is still pending before the court, making the release procedurally questionable.
El-Rufai, who has been in custody since February over corruption charges, was earlier remanded by a Federal High Court pending hearing of his bail application. Analysts say the development raises concerns about selective enforcement of the law and disregard for judicial authority, especially when compared to the treatment of ordinary detainees.
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