The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified the legal status of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s detention, correcting reports that it sought a fresh extension of his remand in court on Tuesday.
According to a statement by the ICPC’s Head of Media and Public Communication, John Okor Odey, the commission appeared in court to oppose El-Rufai’s application to overturn the court order renewing his remand. The commission’s response was served on El-Rufai’s legal team, who subsequently requested an adjournment. The hearing was postponed to March 31, 2026, to allow time for a reply.
The ICPC provided a detailed timeline to ensure public accuracy. El-Rufai was initially remanded on February 19, 2026, for 14 days to facilitate investigations into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. After that period lapsed, the commission successfully applied for a second 14-day extension, which a magistrate granted on March 5, 2026.
El-Rufai’s counsel had earlier attempted to set aside the original February 19 remand order, but that application was dismissed by the court on March 9, 2026. The statement reaffirmed that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under the valid March 5 remand order.
The commission emphasized its strict adherence to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and the court-mandated timeline, which includes submitting progress reports. It also reiterated its policy against media trials, stating that legal matters must be resolved in court, not through public or social media speculation.
The ICPC urged the public to rely only on official updates and avoid disseminating unverified information, underscoring its commitment to professionalism and the rule of law in its operations.
