“ICPC Asked Me to Stay Away From 2027 Politics Before Release” — El-Rufai Tells Court

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of conditioning his release from detention on his withdrawal from politics.

In a 30-page criminal complaint filed at the Federal High Court, El-Rufai named ICPC Chairman Musa Adamu Aliyu and four other officials, claiming operatives told him that continuing political activity would prevent his release. According to the filing, officials repeatedly warned that disengaging from politics was a prerequisite for freedom.

The allegation forms the core of Count Six in El-Rufai’s suit, which accuses ICPC officials of wrongful confinement intended to coerce him, an offense under Sections 264 and 267 of the Penal Code. He is urging the court to investigate what he describes as an abuse of power and an infringement on his constitutional rights.

The Federal High Court in Abuja adjourned the hearing last week until March 25, 2026, to allow parties to regularize their filings. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik directed that hearing notices be served on respondents not present in court, including the Chief Magistrate of the FCT and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

El-Rufai’s suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/345/2026 and filed on February 20, also challenges a February 19 search of his Abuja residence by ICPC operatives and police officers. He alleges the operation violated his rights to dignity, personal liberty, fair hearing, and privacy under Sections 34 to 37 of the Nigerian Constitution.

Among the reliefs sought, El-Rufai wants any evidence seized during the search declared inadmissible and all items returned with a detailed inventory. He is also claiming N1 billion in general, exemplary, and aggravated damages.

The ICPC has not publicly responded to the allegations.