ICPC Fires Officer for Allowing El-Rufai's Wife Access

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed Daniel Stephen, a member of its internal security team, for facilitating unauthorized access for Aichatou Assabe el-Rufai to meet her husband, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, while he was in custody. The incident took place on Sunday, July 5, 2026, and was captured on CCTV.

Stephen admitted to assisting Aichatou in bypassing established visitor procedures, including using a rear entrance and turning off lights to facilitate the meeting. The visit lasted approximately 15 minutes, during which Aichatou handed her husband a document and discussed a court matter in Hausa.

Stephen acknowledged that his actions violated ICPC security protocols, which require visitor details to be recorded and clearance obtained before access is granted. Sources indicated that Stephen's involvement with Aichatou may have included prior unauthorized encounters.