The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it has recovered electronic equipment allegedly capable of intercepting conversations from the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
According to court documents filed at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, the commission stated that it executed a search warrant on February 19, 2026, at El-Rufai’s residence in Asokoro, Abuja. The search, it said, was witnessed by his wife, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, and his son, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai.
In an affidavit deposed to by its litigation officer, David Efuk, the agency claimed that investigators recovered sensitive security documents that could potentially compromise national security. It also alleged that electronic magnetic devices suspected to be used for tapping conversations were found at the property.
The ICPC further told the court that the former governor declined to grant investigators access to examine the devices. The agency referenced a past television interview in which El-Rufai allegedly admitted to monitoring the telephone conversations of Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser.
The commission disclosed that it had obtained a 14-day remand order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, to detain El-Rufai pending the conclusion of investigations. The order, granted on February 19, 2026, is set to expire on March 5, 2026.
Denying claims of unlawful detention and rights violations, the ICPC maintained that El-Rufai is being held in accordance with due process. It urged the court to dismiss the fundamental human rights enforcement suit filed by the former governor, arguing that investigators should be allowed to complete their probe and file charges where necessary.
The anti-graft agency said the investigation covers multiple corruption allegations, including questions surrounding €1.4 million in cash withdrawals, 180 transactions amounting to N2.16 billion from a consolidated revenue account linked to Kaduna State’s internally generated revenue, and additional transfers totalling N428.12 million to undisclosed accounts.
The petition against El-Rufai also raised concerns about Kaduna State’s debt profile, alleged diversion of public funds, breaches of procurement regulations, and loans secured during his tenure between 2015 and 2023.
The ICPC alleged that one aide connected to the matter has fled the country, while a potential prosecution witness has sought protection over alleged threats.
In his statement on oath, El-Rufai described the investigation as politically motivated. He said he would exercise his right to remain silent until formally arraigned in court. The former governor, now a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), argued that his political affiliation was the real reason behind the probe.
He maintained that he would respond to the allegations only before a court of law, insisting that the investigation amounts to political persecution rather than legitimate law enforcement.
