ICPC Confirms El-Rufai in Custody Amid Alleged Corruption Probe

ICPC Confirms El-Rufai in Custody Amid Alleged Corruption Probe

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

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 in connection with an ongoing corruption investigation.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, disclosed that El-Rufai was in custody as of the close of work on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

“Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the Commission as at the close of work on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. He is being held in connection with ongoing investigations,” Odey said.

The anti-graft agency, however, did not immediately disclose the specific allegations under investigation.

El-Rufai, who served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, has in recent months faced mounting scrutiny over alleged financial dealings during his administration.

Reports indicate that the investigations relate to the management of public funds and contracts awarded during his tenure, though no formal charges have yet been announced.

Sources familiar with the development said the former governor had earlier been invited for questioning by law enforcement authorities before his transfer to ICPC custody.

His administration as the Governor of Kaduna State had also faced calls from political opponents and civil society groups demanding accountability over state finances.

Legal analysts note that the ICPC has the statutory mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption-related offences involving public officers. The Commission has in recent years intensified investigations into high-profile cases as part of broader efforts to strengthen accountability in public office.

As of press time, it was unclear whether El-Rufai would be granted administrative bail or formally charged in court.