Officials of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Thursday searched the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
The development was confirmed in a brief statement by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who said ICPC officials arrived at the property around 2 p.m. and immediately commenced a search of the premises.
El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan, condemned the operation, describing it as “unlawful and a clear violation of legal procedures and fundamental rights.”
The search comes a day after the ICPC confirmed that the former governor was in its custody in connection with an ongoing investigation.
“Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, is in our custody as of the close of work today, Wednesday, 18 February 2026. He is in the custody of the Commission in connection with investigations,” the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, John Odey, said on Wednesday.
The Commission, however, did not disclose details of the investigation.
Series of investigations
El-Rufai’s detention follows a string of allegations and engagements with security agencies in recent weeks.
Last Friday, the chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) confirmed 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.
Days earlier, the former governor had visited the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over allegations of financial improprieties during his tenure between 2015 and 2023.
There were also reports that security operatives attempted to arrest him upon his return from Cairo, Egypt.
El-Rufai later alleged that someone had wiretapped the phone of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, enabling him to intercept instructions for his arrest.
Following that claim, the Department of State Services (DSS) filed a three-count charge against him 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.
Further details are expected as investigations continue.
