ICPC Takes El-Rufai Into Custody Over Alleged N11.1bn Kaduna Light Rail Fraud

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has taken former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai into custody over allegations linked to the failed N11.1 billion Joint Venture Kaduna Light Rail project.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Commission confirmed that El-Rufai is currently in its custody in connection with ongoing investigations.

According to the anti-graft agency, the former governor’s arrest is tied to a pending trial before the Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, concerning the controversial light rail project initiated during his administration.

The ICPC alleged that between December 2016 and January 2017, El-Rufai approved the payment of N11.1 billion to a joint venture entity identified as MRTS JV Nigeria. However, the company was reportedly not formally incorporated by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) until May 10, 2017, months after the funds had already been paid.

The Commission further stated that of the N11.1 billion paid into the Joint Venture’s account domiciled with Sterling Bank, N1.373 billion was allegedly diverted into a private account during the administration.

Following an earlier application by the ICPC, the Federal High Court in Kaduna had last year ordered the temporary forfeiture of N1,373,180,510.07, part of the funds linked to the failed rail project.

The Commission maintains that investigations are ongoing.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from El-Rufai or his legal team regarding the latest development.