The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has clarified the legal status of the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, dismissing reports that it sought a fresh extension of his remand in court on March 17, 2026.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Commission said its appearance in court was solely for the hearing of an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, 2026, seeking to overturn the court order that renewed his detention on March 5, 2026.
According to the ICPC, its counsel served a response to the application during proceedings, after which El-Rufai’s legal team requested an adjournment to enable them reply. The presiding Magistrate subsequently adjourned the matter to March 31, 2026.
The Commission provided a timeline of the court-authorised detention, noting that an initial remand order granted it 14 days to investigate allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Upon expiration, the court approved a further 14-day extension on March 5 to allow the investigation continue.
It added that an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s counsel to set aside the initial remand order issued on February 19, 2026, was dismissed by the court on March 9, 2026.
The ICPC maintained that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under the valid remand order of March 5, stressing that all actions taken are in strict compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015.
Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the Commission said it operates with professionalism and respect for the rule of law, while avoiding media trials.
It urged the public to disregard unverified reports and rely on official communication from the agency as investigations continue.
