ICPC CLARIFIES LEGAL STATUS OF EL-RUFAI’S REMAND, DISMISSES CLAIMS OF FRESH DETENTION REQUEST
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By: Fasasi Hammad
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified the legal status of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s remand in detention.
The Commission said this was necessary to correct misleading reports claiming that it appeared in court on Tuesday seeking a fresh extension of his detention.
In a statement signed by John Okor Odey, Head of Media and Public Communication, the ICPC urged the public to rely on official information and avoid spreading unverified reports.
“The Commission appeared in court today regarding Mallam El-Rufai’s application, filed on 6th March 2026, which seeks to overturn the court order renewing his remand issued on 5th March 2026,” the statement said.
“During proceedings, counsel to Mr. El-Rufai was served with our response to the application and subsequently requested an adjournment to file a reply. As a result, the Magistrate adjourned the hearing to 31st March 2026 to allow sufficient time for his team to respond.”
The ICPC also provided a timeline of the court-authorized detention: the initial remand order allowed the Commission to hold El-Rufai for 14 days to investigate allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Following the expiration of the initial order, the Commission requested and obtained a further 14-day extension on 5th March 2026 to complete its investigations.
Counsel to El-Rufai had also sought 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 strictly adheres to the court-mandated timeline, including the submission of progress reports, and conducts its duties with the highest level of professionalism and respect for the rule of law,” the statement added.
The ICPC emphasized that the remand is fully authorized under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. It also reaffirmed its policy of avoiding media trials, stating that legal disputes should be resolved in court, not through newspapers or social media.
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