By Abiola Olawale
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has declared that a former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, remains in “lawful custody” following a court-authorized extension of his detention.
In a statement, the anti-graft agency clarified the legal status of the former governor to dispel “inaccurate reports” suggesting the commission was seeking yet another fresh extension.
Instead, the ICPC noted that the current 14-day extension, granted on March 5, 2026, remains the valid legal basis for his continued stay.
El-Rufai has been in the custody of the ICPC since February 19, after being released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
There have been several calls for the commission to release or arraign el-Rufai.
In what appears to be a reaction to the calls for el-Rufai’s release, ICPC said the commission is “strictly following the court-mandated timeline” on the remand in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.
“To keep the public informed, the commission provides the following timeline of the court-authorized detention,” the statement reads.
“The initial remand order was granted, allowing the Commission to detain the suspect for 14 days to investigate allegations of money laundering and abuse of office.
“Upon the expiration of the initial order, the Commission applied for a 14-day extension to complete its investigations, which the court acceded to on 5th March, 2026.
“Counsel to el-Rufai attempted to set aside the remand order issued on 19th February, 2026, but the application was dismissed on 9th March, 2026.
“Mallam El-Rufai remains in the lawful custody of the ICPC under the remand order dated 5th March, 2026.
“The commission is strictly following the court-mandated timeline, including the requirement for a progress report. The ICPC conducts its duties with the highest professionalism and respect for the rule of law.
“A court of law has authorised the remand of Mr. El-Rufai in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.
“Furthermore, the ICPC remains firm in upholding its longstanding policy of avoiding media trials. We believe that legal disputes should be settled in the courtroom, not on newspaper pages and social media platforms.
“The commission’s leadership remains steadfast and undeterred in confronting any and all challenges in the course of the current investigation.
“We urge the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely on official updates from the commission.”
