El-Rufai’s Son Claims ICPC is Misusing His Father's Right to Silence

Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, who serves in the House of Representatives, has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of launching a smear campaign against his father, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, by misusing his legal right to silence.

In a detailed statement released on Monday, representing the El-Rufai family, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai expressed disappointment that a recognized constitutional body would resort to antics likened to a circus, asserting that the ICPC's operations have transformed into a media-driven smear campaign rather than one focused on lawful process.

Responding to claims by the ICPC that Nasir El-Rufai has not cooperated with their investigations, he stated that this assertion reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the rights enshrined in the constitution.

He asserted that individuals have the constitutional right to maintain silence during investigations, emphasizing that exercising this right should not be interpreted as an indication of guilt or a lack of cooperation.

“Our father has made it clear to law enforcement: ‘If you have any charges against me, bring them forward. You have had over two years to conduct your investigations. Take me to court,’” the statement conveyed, stating that the ICPC's failure to do so highlights a pattern of lies and misdirection.

Moreover, the family alleges that the search executed was based on a forged and invalid warrant, claimed to have been issued by a magistrate without the authority of a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory. They confirmed that their legal team is currently contesting the validity of the warrant in court, asserting that any evidence obtained through it would be inadmissible.

Labeling the ICPC's actions as a demonstration of “credibility deficit,” the family also accused the agency of forgery, abuse of authority, and spreading misinformation, suggesting that they are acting in the interest of undisclosed political figures. The family intends to pursue all legal avenues available to them and is confident that the Nigerian judiciary will protect their rights.

Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, who represents the Kaduna North Federal Constituency and is the chairman of the House Committee on Banking Regulations, concluded the statement on March 2, 2026, emphasizing his role as a “proud son of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.”

As of now, the ICPC has yet to publicly address these recent claims.