Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has raised alarm over what she describes as the weaponisation of healthcare in Nigeria following the arrest of her husband’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Speaking at a press briefing at the family’s residence in Abuja, alongside El-Rufai’s other wife, Aichatou, Hajiya Asiya expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of her husband, who is currently in ICPC custody facing ongoing legal matters. She alleged that despite diagnoses of high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and glaucoma, access to proper medical care and his trusted personal doctor has been severely restricted.
“Healthcare is being weaponised. The arrest of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s personal doctor represents the weaponisation of healthcare,” Asiya El-Rufai stated. “If doctors become afraid to offer professional opinions and provide care, what does that say about our healthcare system? This situation is no longer about El-Rufai alone; it is about professionals being intimidated into silence.”
The family claims that during a court-approved visit to the National Hospital in Abuja for medical consultation, ICPC officials denied El-Rufai adequate treatment and access to his physician. They further allege that attempts by the family and Professor Abubakar to ensure proper care led to a confrontation, during which Asiya El-Rufai was reportedly assaulted and the doctor arrested.
Asiya El-Rufai appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reminding him of the family’s support during the 2023 election campaign and urging compassionate intervention to guarantee her husband’s constitutional rights to medical care, family access, and legal representation. “My husband does not deserve this persecution,” she emphasised.
The ICPC has countered that the medical visit was abused, alleging El-Rufai used the opportunity to meet with political associates in violation of court orders, and that Professor Abubakar made false statements regarding the medical needs. The Commission maintains its actions are in line with legal procedures.
The family insists that the focus should remain on humane treatment and access to healthcare, warning of the broader implications for the medical profession and the rights of detainees in Nigeria.