Nasir El-Rufai says his refusal to answer ICPC questions is a constitutional right and insists he will only address allegations against him in court.
Former Kaduna State governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has defended his refusal to answer questions from the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), describing his silence as a constitutional right and a protest against what he termed a politically motivated investigation.
In handwritten statements made under caution on February 19 and 20, 2026, and in the presence of his lawyer, Ubong E. Akpan, El-Rufai said he would only respond to allegations in court.
“I have, on the advice of counsel, decided to exercise my right to silence. I will make no further statement or respond to any question,” he wrote, adding, “I will respond to any allegations in a court of law only.” He argued that after nearly two years of investigation, the ICPC should present its findings before a judicial tribunal. His 14-day remand order, obtained from a Bwari Chief Magistrate Court, is set to expire on March 5, 2026.