IGP Urges Federal High Court to Dismiss Nasir El-Rufai’s ₦1bn Rights Enforcement Suit Over Asokoro Residence Search
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a ₦1 billion fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Kaduna State governor .
The suit stems from a controversial search conducted at El-Rufai’s residence in Asokoro, Abuja, by operatives linked to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with police involvement. The former governor claims the operation violated his constitutional rights, while the police insist the search was lawful and carried out with proper authorization.
In February 2026, investigators executed a search at El-Rufai’s residence in the Asokoro district of .
Following the incident, El-Rufai approached the seeking redress for what he described as an illegal and unconstitutional search.
The former governor filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit requesting the court to declare the search unlawful and to award him ₦1 billion in damages for alleged violations of his privacy, dignity, and personal liberty.
In the court filing, El-Rufai argues that the search warrant used during the operation was defective and improperly executed.
According to his legal team, the warrant allegedly:
Failed to clearly specify the items investigators intended to seize
Contained procedural irregularities
Lacked sufficient legal justification
El-Rufai further claims the search caused reputational damage and emotional distress, prompting his demand for substantial compensation.
In response, the Inspector-General of Police, , filed a counter-affidavit urging the court to dismiss the suit.
The police maintain that the search was conducted lawfully under a valid warrant issued by a competent magistrate. According to the police filing, officers acted within their statutory powers to investigate potential criminal activities.
The IGP’s legal team argued that El-Rufai’s suit lacks merit and appears to be an attempt to obstruct legitimate investigations by law enforcement agencies.
These respondents are accused of participating in what El-Rufai describes as an unlawful search operation.
Court Proceedings and Next Hearing
The case is currently before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
During the most recent hearing, the court adjourned proceedings to allow El-Rufai’s legal team time to respond to the counter-affidavit filed by the police. The adjournment means the court will later determine whether the suit should proceed or be dismissed as requested by the IGP.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to El-Rufai’s status as a prominent political figure and former state governor.
Legal experts say the court’s decision could clarify key issues relating to:
The limits of law enforcement search powers
The validity and execution of search warrants in Nigeria
Citizens’ constitutional rights during criminal investigations
Additionally, the case may carry political implications, as investigations connected to the search are reportedly linked to events during El-Rufai’s tenure as Kaduna State governor.
The legal dispute between the Nigeria Police and Nasir El-Rufai highlights growing tensions between public officials and investigative agencies in the country.
While El-Rufai maintains that his rights were violated during the search of his Abuja residence, the police insist the operation was carried out legally and within their investigative mandate.
The Federal High Court’s eventual ruling will determine whether the former governor’s ₦1 billion rights enforcement claim will proceed or be dismissed.