Amanze Chinonye
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has retrieved devices reportedly capable of intercepting conversations and accessing sensitive government documents from the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The agency said the search, conducted on Aso Drive in Abuja, was witnessed by El-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza, and his son, Mohammed Bello. ICPC alleged that the former governor refused to cooperate with investigators, choosing to remain silent until he appears before a court. An aide linked to the matter is said to have left the country.
The anti-corruption body disclosed the claims in court filings as El-Rufai seeks release from custody, insisting that his detention is lawful. ICPC obtained a 14-day remand order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which is set to expire on Thursday. The commission has requested the FCT High Court to dismiss El-Rufai’s suit alleging violations of his fundamental rights.
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Alleged Financial Misconduct
ICPC’s filings outline several allegations against El-Rufai, including the unexplained location of €1.4 million, 180 questionable payments totaling over N2.15 billion from a state revenue account, and transfers to undisclosed accounts worth approximately N428 million.
The commission also claimed that El-Rufai allegedly intimidated potential witnesses, citing a written request from a concerned individual seeking protection. ICPC maintained that the detention is in line with legal procedures and intended to allow a thorough investigation before any charges are filed.
“The commission is committed to concluding its investigations and intends to press formal charges by March 5, 2026, when the current detention order expires,” ICPC said in an affidavit.
Origins of the Investigation
The inquiry began following a petition accusing El-Rufai of corrupt practices during his tenure as Kaduna State governor. The petition alleges mismanagement of public funds, including foreign currency withdrawals, diversion of revenue, violations of state financial policies, and irregularities in the use of domestic and foreign loans for state projects. Several projects were reportedly abandoned despite full payment to contractors, while others allegedly violated procurement laws.
ICPC stated that multiple invitations for El-Rufai to respond to the allegations were unsuccessful, leading to his detention. Prior to ICPC custody, he had been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after failing to meet bail conditions.
Former Governor’s Position
El-Rufai has described the probe as politically motivated. In an affidavit submitted to ICPC, he stated:
“I am a leading member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the only surviving opposition party in Nigeria, which is why I am being investigated. On advice of counsel, I have chosen to exercise my right to remain silent until I am brought before a court. I will respond to any allegations in a judicial setting. This is political persecution, and only a judge can resolve it.”
El-Rufai’s legal team continues to challenge the legality of his detention, asserting that his fundamental rights have been violated.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
