Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has told investigators of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) that the ongoing probe into his activities is politically motivated.
The ICPC is currently investigating El-Rufai over alleged financial impropriety during his time as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023. The former governor and ex-minister of the Federal Capital Territory has been in the custody of the anti-graft agency since February 19 after he was earlier released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to documents referenced in a counter-affidavit filed at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, ICPC investigators obtained handwritten statements from El-Rufai on February 19 and 20, 2026, as part of their investigation. The statements were reportedly taken in the presence of his lawyer, Ubong Akpan.
In his February 19 statement, El-Rufai claimed the investigation was connected to his political affiliation.
“I am a leading member of the African Democratic Congress, the only surviving opposition party in Nigeria, which is the real reason you are investigating me,” he wrote.
He also said he would exercise his constitutional right to remain silent and would not respond to questions from investigators.
“In response to your question (and indeed all your questions), I have, on the advice of counsel, decided to exercise my right to silence. I will make no further statement or respond to any question,” he stated.
El-Rufai further argued that after nearly two years of investigation, the ICPC should present its findings before a judicial tribunal rather than continue questioning him.
“I believe that after nearly two years of intensive investigation, the ICPC should present its findings to a judicial tribunal and not to me. I will respond to any allegations in a court of law only,” he added.
In another statement obtained on February 20, the former governor again declined to answer questions, reiterating that he would only address the allegations in court.
The investigation is part of ongoing scrutiny into the finances and policies implemented during El-Rufai’s administration in Kaduna State.
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