ICPC Detains El-Rufai Over Alleged N1.3bn Kaduna Light Rail Fraud
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, is currently in its custody over ongoing investigations linked to the controversial N1.3 billion Kaduna light rail project.
El-Rufai was earlier arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) shortly after he was released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He has now been transferred to the ICPC as investigations widen.
The former governor is facing trial at the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, over the failed Joint Venture light rail project initiated during his administration. Although funds were paid to a joint venture partner for the execution of the project, the rail scheme was never delivered.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, ICPC spokesperson John Okor Odey confirmed the development.
“The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to state that Malam Nasiru El-Rufai the former Governor of Kaduna state is in our custody as at close of work today Wednesday the 18th day of February, 2026. Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the commission in connection with investigations.”
The anti-graft agency also secured a temporary forfeiture order from the Federal High Court in Kaduna for N1,373,180,510.07, said to be part of the funds allocated to the abandoned rail project.
According to the commission, the money was traced to the account of Indo Kaduna Marts JV Nig. Ltd and was “allegedly diverted into a private account.”
The ICPC approached Justice H. Buhari of the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, through an ex-parte application dated February 14, 2025, seeking orders for the seizure of the funds as part of its ongoing probe.
