OPERATIVES of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have searched the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, intensifying developments surrounding his ongoing investigation by anti-graft authorities.
News Point Nigeria reports that the search of his Aso Drive residence reportedly took place late on Thursday, a day after the commission confirmed that the former governor was in its custody.
El-Rufai’s latest encounter with the ICPC followed his earlier arrest and subsequent bail by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He had honoured an invitation by the EFCC on Monday and was granted bail on Wednesday before being taken into custody by the ICPC.
In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, Mr. J. Okor Odey, confirmed that the former governor was being held by the commission in connection with ongoing investigations.
“The Commission wishes to state that Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, is in our custody as at the close of work today, Wednesday, the 18th day of February, 2026,” the statement read.
“He is in the custody of the Commission in connection with ongoing investigations.”
The commission, however, did not disclose the specific nature of the allegations under investigation, stating that further updates would be provided in due course in line with its mandate and established procedures.
On Thursday night, El-Rufai’s spokesman, Muyiwa Adekeye, disclosed via social media that operatives of the ICPC had searched the former governor’s residence in Abuja.
“UPDATE: The Aso Drive residence of Malam Nasir @elrufai was today searched by the ICPC,” Adekeye wrote.
Ubong Akpan, counsel to the former governor, strongly condemned the search, describing it as unlawful and a violation of established legal procedures and fundamental rights.
According to Adekeye’s update, the lawyer criticised the action “as unlawful, and a clear violation of legal procedures and fundamental rights.”
As of press time, the ICPC had not issued an additional statement addressing the legality concerns raised by El-Rufai’s legal team.
Further details are expected as the commission continues its investigation and responds to claims raised by the former governor’s legal representatives.