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By Lizzy Chirkpi
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 in connection with ongoing investigations.
In a press release issued on Thursday, February 19 2026, the Commission stated that the former governor remains in its custody as of the close of work on Wednesday 18 February, 2026.
“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, Wednesday the 18th day of February, 2026,” the statement read.
The anti-graft agency further clarified that El-Rufai is being held “in connection with investigations,” without immediately disclosing further details about the specific allegations.
The statement posted on it X handle (Formerly Twitter) signed by the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communications, J. Okor Odey, who serves as spokesperson for the Commission.
El-Rufai, who served as Governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, has been in the news in recent months over allegations bordering on financial mismanagement and abuse of office during his tenure.
El-Rufai’s detention comes amid a series of engagements with anti-graft and security agencies.
On Monday, the former governor presented himself at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following an invitation over alleged financial improprieties during his tenure as Kaduna State governor between 2015 and 2023.
The ICPC’s confirmation of his custody marks a major development in the unfolding case and is expected to generate further political and legal reactions in the coming days.
As of press time, it remains unclear whether the former governor will be formally arraigned in court or granted administrative bail pending the conclusion of investigations.