General News
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.
Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on Thursday conducted a search at the residence of former Nasir El-Rufai as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial improprieties linked to his time in office.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who acknowledged that anti-graft officials carried out the operation earlier in the day.
Reacting to the action, one of the former governor’s lawyers, Ubong Akpan, criticised the search, describing it as unlawful and a violation of due process as well as his client’s fundamental rights.
Sources indicate the probe is connected to alleged financial misconduct during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor of Kaduna State. Reports further suggest that he has been in ICPC custody since Wednesday night after previously securing administrative bail from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in a related matter.
The anti-corruption agencies have not publicly disclosed full details of the allegations, and no formal charges had been announced as of press time.
Transcorp Hilton Abuja has carried out its first-quarter unannounced fire drill simulation as part of efforts to strengthen emergency preparedness and reinforce safety standards within the facility.
The exercise, conducted on Wednesday in Abuja was organised in partnership with the Federal Fire Service.
According to the hotel’s management, the drill forms part of a structured safety programme designed to ensure a high level of emergency readiness and seamless coordination with relevant authorities.
Management stated that the initiative highlights the hotel’s continued commitment to the safety and well-being of both guests and staff.
“We successfully carried out our Q1 unannounced fire drill simulation with the support of the Nigeria Fire Service. This exercise is part of our structured safety programme, aimed at ensuring effective emergency response and coordination,” the management said.
The safety exercise comes shortly after the hotel concluded its Valentine’s Day weekend promotion, which featured special offers across its rooms and restaurants and attracted significant guest participation.
As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches, management assures guests of a secure, serene, and memorable experience, reaffirming its dedication to maintaining high safety standards.
The hotel also expressed appreciation for guests’ understanding and apologised for any inconvenience the drill may have caused
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his assent to the amended Electoral Act, describing the move as a setback for Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the amendment was rushed despite objections from members of the public.
It argued that the speed of legislative passage and presidential approval raises concerns about transparency and could erode confidence in future elections, particularly the 2027 general polls.
The ADC further contended that certain provisions in the revised law introduce ambiguity and grant excessive discretion in the collation and transmission of election results.
According to the party, this comes at a time when many Nigerians are calling for greater accountability and full modernization of the electoral system, insisting that the changes do not strengthen trust in the electoral process.
It also questioned why an administration that controls a majority of state governments and wields significant influence in the National Assembly would fast-track amendments to the electoral framework, suggesting the urgency may reflect fears of facing a fully transparent and competitive electoral environment.
While warning of potential tensions in future elections, the party reaffirmed its commitment to lawful and constitutional means in defending democratic principles.
It added that it would mobilise citizens toward vigilance, unity, and active participation to safeguard their constitutional rights.
The ADC concluded that the will of Nigerians must prevail and maintained that no legislative amendment should undermine the country’s democratic aspirations.