N432bn probe: Nasir El-Rufai transferred from Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to Independent Corrupt Practices Commission custody

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, is in its custody as part of an ongoing corruption-related investigation.

According to the commission, El-Rufai’s detention is linked to allegations concerning financial transactions and project expenditures carried out during his tenure as governor. The probe is understood to be examining contract awards, budget implementation processes, and the utilisation of public funds tied to state infrastructure and development programmes.

Officials indicated that the action forms part of broader accountability measures aimed at reviewing past government spending and ensuring compliance with procurement and anti-corruption laws. The commission also noted that the investigation remains active, with interrogations, document reviews, and collaboration with other oversight agencies continuing.

While ICPC has acknowledged holding the former governor for questioning, it has not publicly released detailed charges, emphasising that the process is still at the investigative stage. El-Rufai’s aides and political associates have meanwhile called for due process and transparency, maintaining that he is prepared to cooperate with authorities

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. Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the Commission in connection with investigations,” Odey said.

The ICPC did not provide further details about the nature of the investigation or how long the former governor may remain in custody.

The development comes amid ongoing investigations linked to alleged financial transactions and projects executed during the tenure of Nasir El-Rufai as Governor of Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023.

The former governor had earlier been questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over matters reportedly connected to alleged financial dealings running into N432 billion.

Although details of the EFCC’s inquiry were not formally disclosed, sources indicated that the questioning formed part of a broader anti-corruption review.