Crime

Nasir El-Rufai Is In Our Custody – ICPC

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on February 19th, 2026.

Nasir El-Rufai Is In Our Custody – ICPC

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is currently in its custody for questioning over allegations linked to financial management during his tenure in office.

In a brief statement released on Wednesday, the anti-graft agency disclosed that El-Rufai was invited as part of an ongoing investigation into contracts and public expenditure carried out while he served as governor between 2015 and 2023. According to the commission, his presence at its headquarters followed a formal invitation, and he is cooperating with investigators.

The ICPC clarified that the action is part of its constitutional mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption-related offences across public institutions. Officials emphasized that the inquiry is not a conviction but a procedural step aimed at establishing facts surrounding specific transactions under review.

Sources within the commission indicated that investigators are examining procurement processes, project execution records, and the disbursement of funds tied to infrastructure and social intervention programmes. The agency is said to be scrutinizing whether due process was followed and if public funds were applied in accordance with the law.

Supporters of the former governor have described the development as politically motivated, arguing that El-Rufai’s record in office reflected significant infrastructural reforms and administrative restructuring. Critics, however, insist that public officials must be held accountable and that transparency in governance is essential to strengthening democratic institutions.

Legal analysts note that anti-corruption investigations involving high-profile political figures often attract public attention due to their potential implications. They stress that the rule of law requires that allegations be thoroughly investigated while upholding the rights of those involved.

The ICPC assured Nigerians that it will provide updates as the investigation progresses, reaffirming its commitment to fairness, due process, and institutional integrity. For now, the former governor remains with the commission as questioning continues, pending the outcome of preliminary findings.