Independent Corrupt Practices Commission confirms former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai in custody in Abuja amid ongoing corruption investigation

In a significant development, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai is currently in its custody.

According to the agency’s spokesperson, El-Rufai remained with the commission as of the close of work on February 18, 2026, following reports that he had initially presented himself for questioning at another anti-graft body.

The former governor’s detention comes amid Nigeria’s renewed push against corruption in public office.

Analysts suggest that El-Rufai’s case could set a precedent, particularly as other high-profile politicians face scrutiny ahead of the 2027 elections.

The exact allegations against him have not been fully disclosed, though sources indicate they relate to financial irregularities during his tenure.

Tragedy Strikes Nigerian Diaspora in the UK

In a heartbreaking turn, Nigerian mother Oluranti Akinyemi passed away shortly after arriving in the United Kingdom to attend her son’s graduation ceremony.

Her death has sparked deep concern among diaspora communities, highlighting the vulnerabilities of international travel and health emergencies abroad.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to cover the repatriation of her remains to Nigeria.

Friends and family have described her as a devoted mother whose sole purpose for the trip was to celebrate her son’s academic achievement.

The incident has prompted calls for more support networks for Nigerians living overseas, especially during significant family milestones.

Bolt Clarifies Slain Student in South Africa Was Unregistered

Following the murder of Nigerian student Isaac Satlat in Pretoria, e-hailing service Bolt revealed that he was not a registered driver on the platform.

The company emphasized that Satlat was operating illegally at the time, reportedly picking up passengers suspected of being carjackers.

Authorities in South Africa have launched investigations into the incident, which has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian student community.

Experts are urging students to verify driver registration and take extra safety precautions when using ride-hailing services in foreign countries.

Plateau Mine Sealed After Toxic Gas Leak

The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of a mining site in Plateau State following a fatal gas leak that claimed multiple lives and hospitalised several villagers.

The affected community has called for stricter safety regulations in local mining operations to prevent similar tragedies.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the incident, urging both the public and private mining companies to adhere strictly to environmental and occupational safety standards.

The government has promised a thorough investigation to determine the source of the toxic gases and to hold accountable any parties found negligent.

FCT Elections: INEC Rolls Out BVAS Machines

For the upcoming Federal Capital Territory area council elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that 3,345 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines will be deployed across polling units.

Movement restrictions around polling locations have also been put in place to ensure smooth operations.

This deployment reflects Nigeria’s ongoing effort to enhance transparency and reduce electoral fraud, particularly amid rising political tensions in the capital.

Nigerian Stars Shine in UEFA Champions League Action

On the international sports front, Nigerian internationals Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika put on standout performances in a thrilling UEFA Champions League play-off first leg.

Atletico Madrid battled to a 3-3 draw with Club Brugge, with Lookman scoring a crucial goal and Onyedika impressing in midfield.

Fans celebrated the Nigerian duo’s contributions, highlighting the growing influence of Nigerian talent in European football.

Analysts suggest their performances could attract further attention from top clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.

What’s Next?

The coming days are set to be intense across several fronts in Nigeria and abroad.

El-Rufai’s legal proceedings will be closely monitored, potentially influencing the political landscape.

Diaspora support campaigns for Oluranti Akinyemi’s repatriation are ongoing, while South African authorities continue investigations into Isaac Satlat’s tragic death.

In sports, the Champions League second-leg matches will determine whether Lookman and Onyedika can help their teams advance, keeping Nigerian football fans glued to screens.

Domestically, the FCT elections will test INEC’s deployment of BVAS machines and election-day management strategies.

Summary

Nigeria begins the day with a mix of legal, political, and human-interest headlines.

Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai is in ICPC custody amid an ongoing corruption probe, while the death of Oluranti Akinyemi in the UK has galvanized diaspora communities.

Bolt confirms slain student Isaac Satlat was unregistered, and Plateau State’s mining tragedy prompts a federal site closure.

Meanwhile, FCT elections prepare to roll out thousands of BVAS machines, and Nigerian footballers Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika shine in the Champions League.

These stories collectively highlight Nigeria’s evolving political, social, and sporting narratives.