The family of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised serious concerns over what they described as a controversial transfer of the former governor to Department of State Services (DSS) custody after his court appearance in Abuja on Monday.

They alleged that the move was carried out in violation of existing court orders directing that he remain under the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Family Alleges Court Order Breach

Speaking to journalists outside a DSS facility, El-Rufai’s wife, Hasiat, said the family had been living in fear due to alleged constant surveillance and repeated threats.

“We now live in constant fear. Every day we get a threat — DSS is coming to raid your house, ICPC is coming to raid your house, police are coming to raid your house. You are being followed. Our phones are tapped,” she said.

She explained that after appearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, El-Rufai was briefly moved during proceedings, despite earlier directives regarding his custody.

“I Am Not Furniture” — El-Rufai Reportedly Resists Transfer

Hasiat claimed the former governor resisted being moved to DSS custody, insisting that prior court orders required him to remain with the ICPC.

“He said to them, I am not going to step down because there are two court orders… Why are you bringing me here? He said, I am not a furniture to be moved,” she stated.

She further alleged that he was later returned to ICPC custody before being moved again after court proceedings, raising questions about the legality of the transfers.

“What has changed?” she asked.

Allegations of Medical Neglect and Long Detention

The family also claimed that El-Rufai has been in custody for 91 days and has been denied consistent access to his personal doctors despite court approvals.

Hasiat said medical follow-ups recommended by ICPC-appointed doctors were allegedly not properly implemented, worsening concerns about his health.

“When you see a doctor and you run tests, you are expected to see the doctor back… He was denied access,” she said.

Son, Allies Criticise Bail Conditions

El-Rufai’s son, Hon. Bello El-Rufai, also criticised the bail conditions, describing them as excessive and impractical.

“Who keeps a person for 91 days? Why were the terms of the bail so stringent?” he asked, questioning requirements tied to civil servants and property documentation.

Supporters of the former governor also described the situation as psychological pressure, arguing that repeated transfers between agencies amounted to undue hardship.

Security Update on Custody Status

However, security sources confirmed that after consultations among legal representatives, El-Rufai was eventually returned to ICPC custody by 5pm on Monday.

The situation continues to generate public debate as legal proceedings in the case remain ongoing.