The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has arrested Professor Bello Abubakar, the personal physician of former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai of Kaduna State. The Commission alleged he made false statements during a court-approved medical visit. The ICPC, in a statement, also accused El-Rufai of abusing the medical visit while in custody, calling it a breach of the court's directive.

According to the ICPC, "the Kaduna State High Court had set July 6, 7 and 8, for an accelerated hearing of criminal charges against the former governor. El-Rufai did not appear on the first day.

"Commission officers said they were ready to transport him to court, but he asked to see his personal doctor first. No prior request for the consultation had been submitted to the agency. An ICPC medical officer examined him and said El-Rufai had no immediate complaints, but noted his wife and legal team member, Asia El-Rufai, wanted him to see his personal physician."

The Commission said it later found photographs posted on Facebook by El-Rufai's political associate, Isa Ashiru Kudan. The images, taken during the time set aside for the medical consultation, showed Professor Abubakar, Kudan and three others with El-Rufai. Based on this, the ICPC concluded the medical visit was used for purposes beyond what the court approved.

The ICPC described the incident as a violation of the court order and said it will bring the matter before the court. Professor Abubakar has been taken into custody for further investigation over alleged false statements. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to due process, stating it will continue to act professionally and humanely, but will not tolerate abuse of its goodwill or disregard for court directives.