The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it recovered electronic equipment allegedly used for tapping conversations and sensitive security documents from the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

The commission said it obtained a remand order from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Federal Capital Territory, to detain el-Rufai for 14 days, pending the conclusion of investigations. The order expires on March 5, 2026.

In court filings, ICPC denied allegations of unlawful detention and urged the FCT High Court to dismiss El-Rufai’s fundamental rights suit.

According to the commission, El-Rufai is being investigated over alleged financial irregularities, including €1.4 million, suspicious payments exceeding N2.15 billion linked to Kaduna State revenue accounts, and transfers of over N428 million to undisclosed accounts.

ICPC also said an aide connected to the case has reportedly fled the country.

The agency disclosed that a search warrant was executed at El-Rufai’s Asokoro residence on February 19, 2026, in the presence of his wife and son, leading to the seizure of security documents and surveillance equipment.

It added that El-Rufai admitted on Arise Television to tapping the phone conversations of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and later refused to grant investigators access to the seized devices.

ICPC alleged that the former governor has declined to cooperate with investigators and has remained silent during questioning. It also claimed that some witnesses have requested protection after alleged threats.

The commission said El-Rufai was transferred from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and lawfully detained under a court order.

It maintained that charges would be filed before the expiration of the remand period.

ICPC said the investigation followed a petition alleging corrupt practices. Several attempts to invite El-Rufai reportedly failed before he was eventually served at his residence and later detained.

The commission insisted that due process was followed and called on the court to allow it to complete its investigations in the public interest.