By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
The son of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has denied claims that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) recovered phone-tapping equipment linked to him, accusing the anti-graft agency of spreading falsehood.
The ICPC had earlier claimed that sophisticated electronic surveillance equipment was discovered during an operation at a residence reportedly associated with Bello El-Rufai. According to the agency, the devices were suspected to have capabilities for unlawful interception of communications, prompting further investigation.
The anti-graft body said the recovery formed part of an ongoing probe into alleged abuse of technology and possible violations of Nigeria’s laws governing privacy and electronic monitoring. The development quickly sparked public debate, given the political prominence of the El-Rufai family.
But in a statement released on Thursday, Bello El-Rufai described the reports as “entirely fabricated,” insisting that neither he nor any entity connected to him possessed or operated illegal surveillance devices.
“I categorically deny the claim that any phone-tapping equipment was seized from me or from any facility linked to me,” he said. “This narrative is false and appears designed to malign my reputation.”
The lawmaker expressed concern over what he called the growing trend of misinformation in politically sensitive matters, urging the ICPC to clarify its position publicly.
He further challenged the anti-corruption agency to provide verifiable evidence to support the allegation, maintaining that the claims lack factual basis.
“If the ICPC has any credible evidence, it should present it transparently. Otherwise, it must retract these misleading insinuations,” Bello added.
The ICPC had earlier indicated that certain electronic surveillance devices were recovered during an operation, a claim that has generated public debate and political reactions.
However, Bello insisted he has no connection whatsoever to the equipment in question.
“I have never been involved in any form of illegal interception of communications. Any attempt to link me to such activities is mischievous and unacceptable,” he said.
He also warned against what he termed the politicisation of anti-corruption efforts, stressing that public institutions must maintain professionalism and fairness in their operations.
