El-Rufai’s Wife Warns Against ‘Weaponising’ Healthcare Amid ICPC Case
Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has raised concerns over what she described as the “weaponisation” of healthcare in relation to her husband’s ongoing legal battle, warning that such actions could discourage medical professionals and worsen Nigeria’s healthcare workforce shortage.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, the lawyer reacted to the reported arrest of her husband’s longtime personal physician, Dr. Bello Abubakar. She argued that doctors should be able to provide medical treatment without fear of intimidation or legal repercussions.
According to her, targeting healthcare professionals for treating patients could create a dangerous atmosphere that pushes more Nigerian doctors to leave the country in search of safer and more supportive working environments.
Mrs. El-Rufai explained that her husband, who has been managing glaucoma for many years, requested access to his personal physician during his detention. She said Dr. Abubakar has overseen his medical care since his days as Director-General of the former Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE).
Hospital Visit Was Strictly Medical
She also dismissed allegations that her husband’s recent hospital visit was used to hold political meetings.
According to her, the visit complied with a court order granting him unrestricted access to medical treatment. She noted that the appointment was deliberately scheduled for 5 p.m. to reduce interaction with other patients.
Mrs. El-Rufai further stated that any conversations her husband had at the hospital occurred naturally with members of the public who recognised him and were not pre-arranged political engagements.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Nasir El-Rufai is currently facing several criminal charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), including allegations of abuse of office, procurement violations, fraud, and money laundering.
The anti-graft agency alleges that while serving as Kaduna State governor, El-Rufai approved an ₦8.68 billion CCTV surveillance contract awarded to a company that allegedly lacked the required technical experience. Prosecutors also claim that proceeds from the contract were laundered.
The former governor has denied all allegations and pleaded not guilty. He is also facing a separate federal case involving the alleged unlawful interception of telephone communications.
Concerns Over Healthcare Brain Drain
Mrs. El-Rufai linked the situation to Nigeria’s growing healthcare challenges, noting that many doctors and nurses continue to relocate abroad due to better salaries, improved working conditions, and concerns over professional independence.
She warned that any actions capable of intimidating medical practitioners could further weaken Nigeria’s already overstretched healthcare system.