The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has traced several luxury properties in Egypt to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, as part of an ongoing investigation into his tenure from 2015 to 2023.
Sources say the assets include three villas and six apartments in high-end areas of Cairo, such as Arabilla Estate, Banafsik Estate, Oriana Estate, and Cairo Festival City. Villas in these estates are valued between $1 million and $1.3 million, while apartments in Cairo Festival City are worth about $500,000 each.
A senior ICPC official disclosed, “We are reviewing the ownership of these properties and investigating the source of funds used to acquire them. The probe is ongoing.”
El-Rufai, who has been in ICPC custody since February, denies any wrongdoing. In a statement released by his lawyers, he said, “ I have not engaged in any financial impropriety. This investigation is politically motivated and designed to target me because of my political affiliations.”
He has also filed a lawsuit against the ICPC, challenging the search of his Abuja residence and seeking N1 billion in damages. His lawyers argue that the search was “an unlawful invasion and violation of fundamental rights.”
The ICPC continues its investigation, which has drawn attention from legal experts and the public, highlighting concerns over accountability and transparency in public office.