ICPC Discloses Comprehensive Inventory of Items Seized from Former Governor's Residence
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has formally released a detailed list of documents and electronic devices seized during a search operation at the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. This disclosure came through court filings submitted to the Federal Capital Territory High Court on Monday, March 2, 2026, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Commission's Actions
Simultaneously, the ICPC has rejected a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by El-Rufai seeking N1 billion in damages. The former governor alleged illegal arrest, detention, and unauthorized search of his residence last month. The anti-graft agency presented its evidence and justification for the search operation through these court documents, providing transparency about their investigative procedures.
According to reports from The Punch newspaper, ICPC officials conducted the search operation with police accompaniment. Notably, El-Rufai's wife, Hadiza, and his son, Mohammed, were present as witnesses during the entire procedure, ensuring proper documentation and chain of custody for all seized materials.
Comprehensive List of Seized Materials
The commission documented an extensive array of materials taken from the residence for forensic analysis. These items include:
- Records of domestic and foreign loans approved by the Kaduna State House of Assembly spanning from 2015 to 2023
- Interim investigation reports involving El-Rufai and his associates
- Documents connected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) welfare secretary
- Irrevocable Powers of Attorney for multiple properties
- Afri-Venture Capital Company documentation and investor account statements
- Asset declaration forms and land ownership documents
- Certificates of registration for various business entities
- Corporate compliance records and client Know-Your-Customer files
- Ecobank Nigeria Plc share certificates
- Student financial services papers and valuation reports
- Deeds of assignment and payment mandates
- Media and publicity materials from the Office of the former governor
The ICPC emphasized that all seized items were properly documented, sealed, and prepared for comprehensive forensic analysis. A detailed Device Documentation Form captured specific information including serial numbers, device types, storage details, and accessories for each electronic gadget collected during the operation.
Family Response and Public Statements
Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, representing the family, has strongly denied the ICPC's allegations, describing them as "a blatant lie" and accusing the commission of conducting what he called "a circus of chicanery." The lawmaker urged Nigerians to pray for peace while emphasizing the constitutional right to remain silent during investigations.
This development follows earlier reports that El-Rufai addressed Nigerians in a viral video before honoring an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In that message, the former governor acknowledged he anticipated possible detention and chose to speak directly to citizens beforehand. He urged Nigerians to uphold the law, resolve disputes peacefully, and maintain accountability for law enforcement agencies while relying on their protection.
The court filings represent a formal step in the legal process as both the ICPC and El-Rufai's legal team prepare for further proceedings. The detailed inventory provides insight into the scope of the investigation and the types of evidence being examined by anti-corruption authorities.
