The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is currently in its custody following his release from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The anti-graft agency disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. According to the Commission, El-Rufai remained in its custody as of the close of work on Wednesday.
The statement was signed by the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, Mr. J. Okor Odey. It confirmed that the former governor was being held in connection with an ongoing investigation.
“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 ICPC did not provide details about the specific allegations under investigation. It also did not state whether formal charges had been filed against the former governor.
The Commission assured the public that additional information would be released in accordance with its established procedures and legal mandate. It emphasized that its actions are guided by the rule of law.
El-Rufai’s detention by the ICPC came shortly after he was released from the custody of the EFCC. He had reportedly presented himself voluntarily at the EFCC headquarters on Monday, where he underwent questioning.
While the EFCC did not publicly disclose the details of its interrogation, sources indicated that he was released before being taken into custody by the ICPC. The circumstances surrounding the handover between the two anti-graft agencies have not been fully clarified.
The development has drawn attention due to El-Rufai’s high-profile political career. He served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During his tenure, his administration implemented reforms in public service restructuring, education policy, and infrastructure development. His government pursued urban renewal initiatives aimed at modernizing parts of the state.
However, his time in office was not without controversy. His administration faced criticism over persistent security challenges, including banditry and communal violence in parts of Kaduna State.
There were also debates over fiscal management and the state’s debt levels during his governorship. Supporters, on the other hand, described him as a reform-driven leader who took decisive steps on governance matters.
Before becoming governor, El-Rufai served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory from 2003 to 2007. In that role, he oversaw significant reforms in Abuja’s administration and land management system.
He also held positions at the federal level, including involvement in privatization efforts through the Bureau of Public Enterprises. Since leaving office in 2023, he has remained active in national political discourse.
The ICPC, established in 2000, is mandated to investigate and prosecute corruption-related offences. It operates alongside other agencies, including the EFCC, in addressing financial crimes and abuse of public office.
In its statement, the ICPC reiterated its commitment to professionalism and fairness. It maintained that its investigations are conducted without bias.
“The Commission remains guided by the rule of law and assures the public that investigations are being conducted professionally and without prejudice,” the statement added.
As of the time of filing this report, neither El-Rufai nor his associates had issued an official response to his arrest by the ICPC. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more details are made public.
