Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) on Thursday searched the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, amid an ongoing investigation.
The development was confirmed in a brief statement by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who said ICPC officials arrived at the property at about 2 p.m. and immediately commenced a search of the premises.
El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan, criticised the operation, describing it as “unlawful and a clear violation of legal procedures and fundamental rights.”
A day earlier, the ICPC had confirmed that the former governor was in its custody.
“Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, is in our custody as of the close of work today, Wednesday, the 18th day of February, 2026. He is in the custody of the Commission in connection with investigations,” ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Odey, said in a statement.
The anti-corruption agency has not disclosed details of the specific allegations under investigation.
READ ALSO:
- ICPC Storms El-Rufai’s Abuja House Over Investigation
- EFCC Releases Nasir El-Rufai as ICPC Takes Custody
- Civil Society Slams Tinubu For Assenting Electoral Act 2026
El-Rufai’s detention follows a string of engagements with security and anti-graft agencies in recent days. Last Friday, the chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) acknowledged receiving an invitation from the ICPC.
“Yesterday, after the futile attempt to abduct me, the ICPC delivered a letter inviting me to their office. My lawyer has written to confirm that I will be attending the ICPC office on Wednesday, 18 February 2026,” he wrote on X.
Earlier, the former governor had visited the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over allegations of financial improprieties linked to his tenure between 2015 and 2023.
There were also reports that security operatives attempted to arrest him upon his return from Cairo, Egypt, claims that further heightened political tension around the unfolding investigation.
El-Rufai subsequently alleged that an individual had “wiretapped” the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, enabling him to intercept instructions regarding his arrest.
In a related development, the Department of State Services (DSS) filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai for allegedly intercepting Ribadu’s phone conversation. Prosecutors said the alleged act contravenes Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
As investigations continue, the ICPC has yet to provide further clarification on the scope of its probe or whether additional charges may follow.
About the Author
