The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dismissed a security officer after he allegedly helped one of the wives of detained former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, sneak into the commission’s premises for an unauthorised visit.
The officer, identified as Daniel Stephen, was reportedly caught on CCTV allegedly escorting Aichatou Asabe El-Rufai through a back entrance of the facility on July 5, 2026, bypassing the commission’s established visitor-screening procedures.
What followed, according to details presented to an internal investigation panel, was a covert 15-minute encounter between Asabe and her detained husband.
Stephen, who was attached to the ICPC’s internal security team, allegedly drove Asabe into the premises, took her through the rear entrance and escorted her upstairs to the section where El-Rufai was being held.
At one point, the officer allegedly switched off the light before the woman entered the room.
Inside, Asabe reportedly handed her husband a document, picked up a black purse and spoke with him in Hausa about a court matter.
The encounter reportedly lasted about 15 minutes before Stephen allegedly escorted her back through the same route and drove her out of the premises.
But the secret visit unravelled after CCTV footage allegedly captured the movements.
Confronted by investigators, Stephen reportedly admitted that he had knowingly breached the commission’s security procedures.
In a handwritten statement submitted to the panel, he allegedly acknowledged that visitors were required to have their details recorded at the gate and obtain clearance from the head of the security unit before entering the facility.
“I agree that I am wrong and breached commission procedure,” he reportedly wrote, adding that the statement was made voluntarily and without coercion or duress.
‘It Wasn’t His First Time’
The investigation reportedly uncovered another startling allegation.
Stephen allegedly told the panel that his involvement with members of El-Rufai’s family may have extended beyond the July 5 visit.
According to his account, he had previously helped Asabe move further into the facility while officials were still attempting to establish her identity.
He allegedly said that, after assisting her, he was approached by a man who identified himself as El-Rufai’s blood brother.
The officer reportedly agreed to assist the man as well, allegedly bringing him into the facility through the same back entrance.
The revelations have raised questions over security breaches at the commission and how individuals were able to gain access to a high-profile detainee outside established procedures.
El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 19, following his release by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He is facing allegations relating to money laundering and conversion of public property, charges he has denied.
For Stephen, however, the alleged breach of procedure has already carried a heavy price: dismissal from the commission.
‘Back Door’ Drama: ICPC Sacks Officer Over El-Rufai’s Wife’s Secret Visit
