ICPC’s gesture to El-Rufai shows compassion in governance — NCYP

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has commended the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for granting former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, the opportunity to mourn and bury his late mother.

The group described the decision as humane, noting that it reflects the leadership disposition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which it said prioritises compassion, empathy, and respect for human dignity.

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak, the NCYP said the gesture was particularly noteworthy given the known political differences between President Tinubu and El-Rufai.

“What makes this gesture even more remarkable is that it comes despite the known political differences between President Tinubu’s government and El-Rufai,” the statement read.

“It clearly underscores the President’s belief in politics without bitterness—where humanity takes precedence over political divides.”

Abrak contrasted the development with past experiences, recalling that former President Muhammadu Buhari was reportedly not allowed to attend his mother’s burial while in detention following the 1985 change of government under Ibrahim Babangida.

“Many Nigerians at the time expressed concern, viewing it as reflective of a more rigid leadership approach that placed limited emphasis on humanity,” he said.

“President Tinubu, through this act, has set a commendable standard—demonstrating that leadership is not only about authority but also about compassion and understanding.”

The group added that the development offers an important lesson for Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasising that leadership can be exercised with grace and without bitterness.

It further stated that the example set by the government should be emulated by leaders and institutions across the country.

The NCYP also stressed that while compassion should guide actions, it remains appropriate for legal and investigative processes to continue after the burial to ensure that justice is served.