BREAKING: El-Rufai Sues ICPC Over Arrest, Defamation, Demands N15.6bn in Damages
Former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai of Kaduna State and members of his family have demanded N15.6 billion in damages from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), its chairman, and other officials over his arrest, detention, and what they described as false and misleading public statements.
The demand comes after the commission alleged that “wiretapping equipment” was discovered at El-Rufai’s residence.
In a letter dated March 4, 2026, the former governor’s legal team described a press statement issued by the ICPC on March 2, 2026, as defamatory, asserting that it had caused serious damage to El-Rufai’s reputation.
In a formal legal notice, El-Rufai accused the commission of violating his fundamental rights and outlined his claims for compensation, which include damages for defamation, punitive redress, and legal costs, bringing the total to N15.6 billion.
The notice gave the ICPC 24 hours to meet the demands, warning that failure to comply would lead to further legal action.
The notice also revealed that the legal team plans to pursue additional measures, including civil and contempt proceedings, as well as complaints regarding alleged abuse of office and violations of El-Rufai’s fundamental rights, both within Nigeria and at regional human rights bodies.
