The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has taken former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, into custody
El-Rufai’s detention by the anti-graft agency comes after he was earlier picked up by the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after regaining freedom from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The former governor is currently facing trial before the Federal High Court in Kaduna over the controversial N1.3 billion Joint Venture Kaduna light rail project, which was initiated during his administration but never executed.
According to investigators, the funds meant for the rail project were paid to a joint venture partner. However, the project was abandoned despite the disbursement.
In a statement released around midnight, ICPC spokesperson John Okor Odey confirmed his detention.
“The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to state that Malam Nasiru El-Rufai the former Governor of Kaduna state is in our custody as at close of work today Wednesday the 18th day of February, 2026. Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the commission in connection with investigations.”
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, has granted a temporary forfeiture order on N1,373,180,510.07 linked to the failed rail project following an application by the ICPC.
The commission disclosed that the funds were recovered from the account of Indo Kaduna Marts JV Nig. Ltd, where the money was allegedly diverted into a private account.
ICPC stated that it traced the N1.373 billion to the company’s account before approaching Justice H. Buhari of the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, through an ex-parte motion dated and filed on February 14, 2025, seeking orders to seize the funds.
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