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 investigation.
In a brief statement issued Wednesday, the commission’s spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, said El-Rufai was taken into custody and remained with the agency as of the close of work on February 18, 2026.
The ICPC did not disclose details of the allegations under investigation.
“Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the Commission in connection with investigations,” the statement said.
Earlier EFCC Invitation and Allegations
Earlier in the week, El-Rufai had presented himself at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following an invitation over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as Kaduna governor between 2015 and 2023.
In 2024, the Kaduna State House of Assembly accused the former governor of diverting ₦423 billion in public funds and engaging in money laundering, urging anti-corruption agencies to investigate the allegations.
The ICPC subsequently invited him for questioning.
Arrest Attempt and Security Dispute
Tensions escalated last Thursday when security operatives reportedly attempted to apprehend El-Rufai at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport upon his arrival from Cairo.
He later alleged that the ICPC, acting on the instruction of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, directed officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) to arrest him.
On Monday, the DSS filed a three-count charge against him, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the national security adviser’s telephone conversation.
Detention and Ongoing Investigation
Earlier reports indicated that El-Rufai spent two nights at the EFCC headquarters before being held by the DSS. His current detention by the ICPC marks the latest development in a series of investigations and legal actions involving the former governor.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while the former governor has not yet publicly responded to the latest development.
