The Impartial Corrupt Practices and Different Associated Offences Fee (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is at the moment in its custody as a part of an ongoing investigation.
In an announcement issued on Wednesday, the Fee’s Head of Media and Public Communications, Mr. J. Okor Odey, stated El-Rufai remained with the anti-graft company as of the shut of labor on February 18, 2026.
“The Fee needs to state that Malam Nasiru El-Rufai, the previous Governor of Kaduna State, is in our custody as on the shut of labor right this moment, Wednesday, the 18th day of February, 2026,” the assertion learn. “He’s within the custody of the Fee in reference to ongoing investigations.”
The ICPC didn’t present particulars of the probe however assured the general public that additional info can be launched in keeping with its procedures and mandate.
El-Rufai’s detention by the ICPC comes days after he voluntarily offered himself on the headquarters of the {Economic} and {Financial} Crimes Fee (EFCC) on Monday, the place he had been present process questioning earlier than being taken into ICPC custody.
A distinguished determine in Nigerian politics, El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 underneath the All Progressives Congress (APC). His administration pursued sweeping reforms in areas resembling public service restructuring, schooling coverage, and concrete renewal, whereas additionally attracting criticism over safety challenges and financial administration.
Earlier than his governorship, he held a number of senior authorities roles, together with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory between 2003 and 2007, and has remained an outspoken voice in nationwide political debates since leaving workplace.
The ICPC, established in 2000 to analyze and prosecute corruption-related offences, stated the continuing investigation can be performed strictly inside the bounds of the legislation.
“The Fee stays guided by the rule of legislation and assures the general public that investigations are being performed professionally and with out prejudice,” the assertion added.
As of the time of submitting this report, neither El-Rufai nor his associates had issued an official response.