Usman Austin, a prominent member of the African Democratic Congress, has publicly urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to take action regarding the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. Austin emphasized the importance of either charging El-Rufai with relevant offenses in court or releasing him immediately. This call reflects growing concerns surrounding the legality of El-Rufai's ongoing detention without formal charges, rooting for adherence to the rule of law.

Austin pointed out the recent approach adopted by Nigeria's Department of State Services (DSS), which has sought judicial intervention in similar cases instead of arbitrary detainment. He highlighted the DSS's shift towards a more democratic process, indicating that the involvement of the judiciary allows for a more equitable treatment of allegations, ensuring that both sides—the prosecutor and the defendant—have an opportunity to argue their case in a legal setting.

The statement from Austin raises significant questions about the accountability of governmental institutions like the ICPC and their methods of handling corruption allegations. By insisting on a judicial process, Austin advocates for a democratic principle that aligns with civil rights, urging a shift from potential political detentions towards a system that respects legal mechanisms. This appeal could have broader implications for the treatment of political figures in Nigeria, as well as public trust in anti-corruption bodies when handling cases involving prominent individuals.