Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, remained in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Thursday as investigators intensified a widening probe that led to a search of his Abuja residence.
Officials familiar with the investigation said operatives of the anti-graft agency arrived at the property early in the day armed with a search warrant, combing through documents, electronic devices and other materials believed to be relevant to ongoing inquiries into alleged financial infractions linked to contracts awarded during his tenure in office.
Witnesses in the neighbourhood reported a heavy security presence as ICPC personnel conducted what sources described as a meticulous operation lasting several hours. Movement around the premises was restricted while investigators moved items into waiting vehicles under tight supervision.
Although the commission has yet to release a comprehensive official statement detailing the exact allegations, sources within the agency indicated that the investigation centres on suspected abuse of office, procurement irregularities and the handling of public funds tied to major infrastructure projects executed while El-Rufai served as governor between 2015 and 2023.
The former governor was reportedly invited earlier in the week for questioning but was subsequently detained after investigators said new evidence emerged during interrogation sessions. Anti-corruption officials are believed to be analysing financial records and testimonies from contractors and former government officials as part of the probe.
Legal representatives close to El-Rufai have maintained that their client has cooperated fully with investigators and denied any wrongdoing. A member of his legal team said discussions were ongoing regarding bail conditions, insisting that the allegations would ultimately collapse under judicial scrutiny.
Political associates of the former governor have described the development as politically motivated, arguing that he has remained an outspoken figure within national politics since leaving office. Some supporters gathered briefly outside the ICPC headquarters in Abuja, calling for transparency and due process.
However, civil society groups have urged investigators to allow the process run its course, noting that accountability for public office holders is essential to restoring public trust in governance. Anti-corruption advocates say the case represents another test of Nigeria’s commitment to tackling high-level corruption irrespective of political affiliation.
The ICPC has increasingly stepped up enforcement actions in recent months, targeting former and serving public officials as part of broader efforts by authorities to strengthen financial oversight and recover allegedly misappropriated public funds.
Legal analysts say the next phase of the matter could depend on whether prosecutors believe the evidence gathered meets the threshold for formal charges. Under Nigerian law, suspects may be held for a limited period pending court approval or arraignment.
As of Thursday evening, ICPC officials declined further comment, stating only that investigations were ongoing. The commission is expected to issue a formal update once preliminary findings are concluded or if charges are filed before a competent court.
