ABUJA, Nigeria – Operatives of Nigeria’s Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission searched the Abuja residence of Nasir El-Rufai on Thursday, a day after the agency confirmed that it had taken him into custody.
The search of the property on Aso Drive began at about 2 p.m. and lasted several hours, according to statements from aides and lawyers representing the former governor.
Muyiwa Adekeye, a media aide to el-Rufai, confirmed the operation in a post on social media on Thursday, Friday 19, 2026.
El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan, said the search was unlawful and violated established legal procedures and fundamental rights.
The ICPC did not immediately issue a public statement detailing the scope or legal basis of the search.
Sequence of Custody Transfers
The search followed a series of rapid developments involving multiple federal agencies. On Monday, el-Rufai presented himself voluntarily to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to respond to allegations concerning the diversion of 423 billion naira during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State.
After the EFCC granted him administrative bail late Wednesday, El-Rufai was immediately intercepted by operatives of the Department of State Services.
By Thursday, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission said it had assumed custody of the former governor in connection with what it described as ongoing investigations.
Cybercrime Allegations
Separately, the DSS has filed a three-count charge at the Federal High Court in Abuja, case number FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026.
The charges relate to allegations that El-Rufai unlawfully intercepted telephone communications belonging to Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Prosecutors said the allegations arose from comments El-Rufai made during a recent television interview, which they contend amounted to an admission of unlawful interception.
The DSS said the alleged conduct violated provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, and posed risks to national security. El-Rufai has not entered a plea, and no date has been fixed for his arraignment.
Political Context and Public Response
The sequence of arrests, transfers and searches has prompted public debate in Nigeria, with critics questioning the coordination among agencies and supporters arguing that the investigations should proceed without regard to political considerations.
El-Rufai, a former ally of President Bola Tinubu, has become an outspoken critic of the administration and recently aligned himself with the opposition African Democratic Congress.
Advocacy groups in Kaduna State have countered claims of political motivation, saying allegations concerning public funds during his administration warrant full investigation.
As of Thursday night, el-Rufai remained in ICPC custody while investigators continued reviewing documents and materials seized during the search of his Abuja residence.
