El-Rufai Completed the Qur’an, Read 10 Books in Detention” — Associate

An associate of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai has revealed details of the former Kaduna State governor’s time in detention, saying he focused on fasting, religious study, and reading while in custody.

The associate, Bashir Garba Sufyan, disclosed this shortly after El-Rufai’s release, confirming that he has returned home and reunited with family and close allies.

According to Sufyan, El-Rufai said he fasted throughout most of his detention period. He also reportedly completed the Qur’an, read 10 books, and engaged in writing.

El-Rufai was released by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which had detained him since February 19, 2026. Before that, he was questioned for 48 hours by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The ICPC had arraigned him on a 10-count charge bordering on alleged conversion of public property and money laundering. The case was filed at a Federal High Court in Kaduna, where a bail ruling had been scheduled for March 31.

His release followed the death of his mother in Cairo, Egypt. El-Rufai has denied all allegations against him.

His son, Bashir El-Rufai, also confirmed the development.

Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have sent condolence messages following the death of El-Rufai’s mother.

Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some users describing the situation as an internal affair among political elites.