ICPC Clears Air, Says No Move To Extend Nasir El-Rufai’s Detention

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has refuted reports alleging that it sought a fresh court order to prolong the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

According to Ireporter Online, the clarification was issued on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, through the commission’s spokesperson, John Odey, who explained that the agency’s appearance in court on March 17 was in response to a legal application filed by El-Rufai.

The commission disclosed that the application, submitted on March 6, sought to overturn a remand order earlier granted by the court on March 5. During the proceedings, the ICPC served its legal response to El-Rufai’s counsel, who subsequently requested additional time to review the documents.

Following the request, the presiding magistrate adjourned the case to March 31, 2026, to allow the defence team adequately prepare its response.

The agency emphasized that El-Rufai’s continued detention remains anchored on a valid court order. It explained that the court initially granted a 14-day remand to enable investigations into allegations bordering on money laundering and abuse of office. Upon the expiration of the initial period, the commission secured an additional 14-day extension on March 5.

It further revealed that a previous attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to nullify an earlier remand order issued on February 19 was dismissed by the court on March 9.

Maintaining its stance, the ICPC reiterated that all actions taken in the matter strictly comply with legal procedures, noting that it has consistently updated the court on the progress of its investigation in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015. The agency also stressed its preference for addressing such matters within the judicial system rather than engaging in media discourse.

El-Rufai has remained in the commission’s custody since February 19, 2026. Prior to that, he returned to Nigeria from Cairo on February 12 and honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16. He was subsequently granted administrative bail on February 19 before being taken into custody by the ICPC the same day.

In a related development, the Department of State Services has also initiated legal proceedings against El-Rufai over allegations of unlawfully monitoring the phone line of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.