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Nasir El-Rufai sues ICPC for N15.6bn over wiretapping claims and detention in a fresh legal battle for his reputation.

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has thrown down the gauntlet against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

El-Rufai and his family are demanding a staggering N15.6 billion in damages. This comes after his recent arrest and detention, which his legal team describes as a targeted attack on his character.

The heated legal war started after the ICPC claimed they found "wiretapping equipment" inside the former governor's home. El-Rufai’s lawyers have fired back, calling the commission's March 2 press statement a pack of lies designed to destroy his reputation.

In a legal notice dated March 4, 2026, El-Rufai’s team didn't hold back. They broke down the N15.6 billion claim into specific demands: N5 billion for general damages, another N5 billion to punish the agency for its conduct, and a final N5 billion for the "aggravated" nature of the ordeal.

To top it off, they want N500 million for the "injurious falsehoods" spread against him and N100 million to cover his legal bills.

The former governor has given the ICPC a 24-hour ultimatum to pay up. If they don't, his lawyers plan to take the fight to the Federal High Court. They are even threatening to file contempt charges against the ICPC Chairman.

The legal battle is set to expand beyond Nigeria’s borders. El-Rufai’s team revealed they are preparing a petition to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

They also plan to investigate a "remand order" they claim was forged and will seek disciplinary action against the magistrate involved in the case.

For El-Rufai, this isn't just about the money; it’s a fight to clear his name against what he calls "malicious prosecution" and an abuse of office.