The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it recovered electronic gadgets suspected to be capable of tapping calls and handling sensitive security documents from the residence of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, in Abuja.
The anti-graft agency further disclosed that it obtained a 14-day remand order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, which allows it to keep el-Rufai in custody until Thursday. ICPC denied claims that the former governor’s detention was unlawful or politically motivated.
In court documents, ICPC urged the FCT High Court of Justice to dismiss el-Rufai’s suit alleging violations of his fundamental human rights. The commission also stated that el-Rufai faces allegations involving missing €1.4 million, 180 questionable payments totaling over N2.15 billion from Kaduna State’s Consolidated Revenue Account, and transfers of N428 million to unidentified accounts.
The commission added that an aide connected to the investigation has reportedly left the country.
According to an affidavit by ICPC Litigation Officer David Efuk, all items were retrieved in the presence of el-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza, and their son, Mohammed. The affidavit alleged that el-Rufai refused to cooperate with investigators, choosing to remain silent until formally presented in court.
The search, conducted at el-Rufai’s residence at No. 12 Mambila Street, Asokoro, allegedly uncovered sensitive security documents and electronic equipment capable of compromising national security.
The commission noted that el-Rufai declined to grant consent to access the devices.
ICPC also highlighted that the former governor had previously admitted on national television to monitoring the calls of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and warned that he has allegedly threatened potential witnesses, prompting at least one to seek protection from the commission.
The anti-graft body emphasized that el-Rufai’s detention is legal, approved by a magistrate to enable a thorough investigation. ICPC assured that it does not engage in arbitrary arrests and that formal charges would be filed before the remand expires on March 5, 2026.
“The commission received a petition against the former governor and has been conducting preliminary investigations, retrieving key documents from banks and government offices,” the affidavit stated.
ICPC maintained that every step, including summonses and search operations, adhered strictly to legal procedures and the agency’s mandate to investigate corruption and related offences.
