By Onoja Baba, Nigeria
The announcement by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that it will arraign former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, on multiple corruption charges has triggered sharp and widespread public backlash, with many Nigerians accusing the anti-graft agency of being a tool of political persecution.
In a press release issued on Monday, the ICPC stated that El-Rufai and one Joel Adoga will be arraigned on Tuesday, at the Federal High Court in Kaduna on charges including conversion and possession of public property and money laundering.
A separate charge has also been filed at the Kaduna State High Court against El-Rufai and Amadu Sule (LEDA) bordering on abuse of office, fraud, and conferring undue advantage.
The development has sparked intense reactions on social media, with many commentators viewing the move as selective and politically motivated.
One of the most widely shared comments came from Aliyu Bello, who warned, “The danger of creating a monster is that, one day it will return back to the owner.”
Other reactions were equally scathing. Users described the ICPC as “a government tool to oppress opposition,” “Jokers,” and suggested the agency should change its name to “ICPCAPC” or “ICPCBAT,” implying it now serves the interest of the ruling party. Several commenters warned that “what goes around comes around” and that “time will judge everybody’s deed,” while others questioned the timing and demanded that the ICPC list specific offences clearly.
The ICPC maintained in its statement that El-Rufai has been duly served and reaffirmed its commitment to due process and the rule of law.
However, the overwhelming public sentiment suggests deep scepticism, with many seeing the case as another chapter in the ongoing political battles between the federal government and prominent opposition figures.
The arraignment is expected to attract significant attention as it unfolds i
n court on Tuesday.
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