Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission have conducted a search in the Abuja home of former governor, Nasir El‑Rufai, as multiple investigations and legal actions intensify against him.
The search was carried out on Thursday, according to El-Rufai’s media aide, while his legal team has described the operation as unlawful and a violation of his rights.
The incident follows his recent detention by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over allegations of corruption. He was released after several hours in custody but was immediately re-arrested by operatives of the anti-graft commission for further questioning.
Authorities have not confirmed whether any items were recovered, and the anti-corruption agency has yet to release an official statement on the development.
In a separate development, Nigeria’s secret police, the State Security Service, has filed cybercrime charges against the former governor at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The charges stem from statements he made during a live interview, where he alleged that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, was involved in plans to have him detained.
Prosecutors claim the former governor made statements that could compromise national security and failed to properly report sensitive information.
The controversy began last week when security operatives attempted to arrest him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport shortly after his return from Egypt. His lawyer has criticised the actions of security agencies, insisting his client was willing to cooperate with investigators and had already made arrangements to honour official invitations.
The unfolding situation marks a dramatic escalation in legal and political tensions surrounding the former governor.
