By MOHAMMED DANBABA
The unfolding El-Rufai vs ICPC dispute deepened on Monday as the family of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, rejected claims that anti-graft operatives discovered sophisticated wiretapping devices and classified security materials in his Abuja residence.
In a strongly worded rebuttal, the family described the allegations as defamatory and politically charged. They insisted that investigators seized only routine personal gadgets, not surveillance equipment capable of compromising national security.
The response followed affidavits reportedly filed in court by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alleging the recovery of electronic magnetic devices designed for covert monitoring, alongside sensitive government documents.
However, El-Rufai’s camp maintains that the commission has chosen public sensationalism over lawful procedure.
Mohammed El-Rufai Fires Back
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, accused the commission of staging what he called a “media trial.”
According to him, the family watched the entire search unfold. He argued that no special surveillance hardware appeared during the operation. Instead, operatives allegedly carted away what he described as ordinary electronic items such as used mobile phones, laptops, and storage devices common in any modern household.
The lawmaker dismissed suggestions that the former governor obstructed investigators. He emphasized that every Nigerian citizen retains the constitutional right to remain silent during questioning.
He further challenged the commission to formally prosecute his father if credible evidence exists. “You have had more than two years to investigate,” he quoted the former governor as saying. “Take the matter to court.”
ICPC’s Allegations
In its court filings, the ICPC claimed its operatives recovered devices “capable of tapping conversations” during a search conducted in the presence of family members. The agency also alleged that the former governor previously admitted on national television to monitoring conversations involving the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Additionally, the commission accused him of refusing consent to grant access to certain electronic equipment during the operation. It attached supporting exhibits to its affidavit, including a copy of a consent form and a letter allegedly written by a witness requesting protection from intimidation.
Furthermore, the ICPC alleged that some materials retrieved during the search included documents linked to various security agencies, potentially posing a threat to national interest.
Yet, the family categorically rejected those claims. They described the narrative as exaggerated and misleading.
Courtroom Developments
Meanwhile, proceedings at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, added another layer to the dispute.
Justice Joyce Obehi Abdulmalik declined to hear an application for bail filed on behalf of the former governor, describing it as premature. She adjourned the matter to April 23, 2026, for proper arraignment.
El-Rufai did not appear in court as he remained in ICPC custody.
Observers, including prominent figures within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), attended the session to monitor proceedings.
The court’s decision to delay the bail hearing signals that the legal contest in the El-Rufai vs ICPC saga may stretch further before substantive arguments begin.
₦1 Billion Fundamental Rights Suit
Beyond the criminal investigation, the former governor has initiated a ₦1 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit against the ICPC and other top government officials. The suit names the Inspector-General of Police, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and a Chief Magistrate within the Federal Capital Territory as respondents.
His legal team argues that the February 19 raid on his residence in Aso Drive relied on a defective warrant riddled with material errors. Counsel Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, reportedly told the court that the warrant lacked specificity and therefore could not justify the search.
The family also claims their lawyers have formally challenged the warrant’s validity in court, alleging procedural irregularities in how it was obtained.
Allegations of Custodial Treatment
Concerns about El-Rufai’s health while in custody have also surfaced. Members of his camp allege that he experienced a nosebleed during detention and faced restrictions regarding meals brought by relatives.
Although authorities have not publicly addressed these claims in detail, the allegations have added emotional weight to the legal confrontation.
Political Undercurrents
The El-Rufai vs ICPC battle has quickly evolved beyond a legal disagreement. It now carries clear political undertones, given El-Rufai’s national profile and outspoken stance on federal governance.
Supporters view the investigation as selective prosecution. Critics, however, argue that no public office holder should stand above scrutiny.
As the case heads toward formal arraignment in April, attention will likely intensify around the evidence both sides present.
For now, the anti-corruption agency insists it acted within its mandate. The family, on the other hand, appears ready for a prolonged legal fight.
With court dates set and fundamental rights claims pending, Nigeria watches closely as one of its most controversial political figures confronts one of its most powerful anti-graft bodies.
The coming weeks could define whether this remains a media battle—or transforms into a landmark judicial showdown.
#ElRufai #ICPC #NigerianPolitics #AntiCorruption #FederalHighCourt #KadunaPolitics
