ICPC Recovers Wiretapping Kit From El-Rufai, Detains Him

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered equipment allegedly capable of wiretapping conversations and accessing sensitive security documents from the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai.

The agency also obtained a 14-day remand order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), set to expire on March 5, 2026, allowing the commission to continue its investigations.

The ICPC is seeking dismissal of el-Rufai’s suit alleging violation of fundamental human rights. According to the commission, the former governor faces corruption allegations, including the whereabouts of €1.4 million, 180 suspicious payments totalling N2.16 billion from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account, and transfers to undisclosed accounts totalling N428.1 million. The commission also reported that an aide linked to the investigation has left the country.

The anti-graft agency filed an affidavit through Litigation Officer David Efuk, noting that all recovered items were retrieved in the presence of el-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza, and his son, Mohammed. The commission said el-Rufai refused to cooperate with investigators, opting to remain silent until brought before a court.

Search and Legal Proceedings

The ICPC detailed that on February 19, 2026, it executed a search warrant at el-Rufai’s residence at No. 12 Mambila Street, Asokoro, Abuja. The operation, witnessed by his family members, retrieved electronic magnetic equipment capable of tapping telephone conversations, as well as sensitive government security documents.

The commission also claimed that the former governor admitted on national television to tapping calls of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

ICPC denies claim El-Rufai suffered nosebleed in custody

ICPC stated that el-Rufai had been lawfully detained and that the agency followed due process based on petitions alleging corrupt practices. The petition included claims of irregularities in the state’s debt profile, diversion of funds, unremitted revenue to the TSA, and violations of procurement laws.

The commission emphasized that its mandate is to investigate corruption, abuse of office, and related offences, and that detention is lawful pending conclusion of investigations.

El-Rufai, through an affidavit to the ICPC, asserted that the investigation is politically motivated, claiming persecution as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He declared his right to remain silent until he faces a court of law, stating that he would only respond to allegations in a judicial setting.

The ICPC assured the public that investigations will be completed in the interest of justice and that charges will be prepared before the expiration of the current remand order, stressing that the agency does not detain individuals arbitrarily.