ICPC recovers sensitive security documents and wiretapping equipment from El-Rufai in Abuja raid, defending its actions amid legal challenge
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission recovered wiretapping equipment and sensitive security documents from the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai on February 19, 2026.
Also read: Ebonyi Governor Orders Rescue of Father of Ex-Deputy Governor
The anti-graft agency executed the operation at No. 12 Mambila Street, Aso Drive, Asokoro District, Abuja, under a court-approved search warrant.
ICPC said the search, confirmed in an affidavit by Litigation Officer David Efuk, followed multiple invitations to El-Rufai to cooperate with ongoing investigations into allegations of corrupt practices.
The agency maintained that both El-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza Isma El-Rufai, and his son, Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, were present during the operation.
During the raid, operatives retrieved electronic magnetic devices alleged to be capable of intercepting telephone conversations.
ICPC claimed that El-Rufai declined consent to access the equipment and resisted cooperating fully.
The commission also seized sensitive documents from government security agencies, which it described as potentially compromising national security.
El-Rufai had filed a N1 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit, arguing that the search violated his constitutional rights to personal liberty, dignity, privacy, and fair hearing.
His legal team requested the court to declare the warrant invalid and restrain ICPC from using the seized items in any proceedings.
In its response, ICPC emphasised that all actions were lawful, conducted with proper judicial authorisation, and in line with investigative procedures.
The agency added that an aide linked to the case had reportedly left the country and that one of the potential prosecution witnesses sought protection from ICPC due to threats.
The commission confirmed that El-Rufai was lawfully remanded for 14 days to allow investigations, assuring the public that all measures were taken to preserve the integrity of the process.
ICPC also stated that charges against the former governor would be prepared before March 5, 2026, when the current remand order lapses.
Also read: Ebonyi Governor Orders Rescue of Father of Ex-Deputy Governor
Legal experts noted the case as a landmark in balancing anti-corruption enforcement with citizens’ constitutional rights, with the outcome likely to influence future procedural safeguards for high-profile investigations in Nigeria.
