By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified the legal status of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, stating that his continued detention is based on an existing court order and not a new directive issued on March 17, 2026.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, the Commission said it appeared in court for the hearing of an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, 2026, seeking to overturn a remand order earlier granted on March 5.
According to the ICPC, proceedings in court did not result in any fresh detention order. Instead, the court adjourned the matter to March 31, 2026, after El-Rufai’s legal team requested time to respond to the Commission’s submission.
The anti-corruption agency emphasized that the initial remand order had granted it 14 days to detain and investigate the former governor over allegations bordering on money laundering and abuse of office. Following the expiration of that order, the Commission applied for an extension, which was approved by the court on March 5.
The ICPC further disclosed that an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to set aside the remand order issued on February 19, 2026, was dismissed on March 9.
Reaffirming its position, the Commission stated that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under a valid court order and that all actions taken so far are in strict compliance with the law, including provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.
The Commission also reiterated its commitment to due process and warned against the spread of misinformation, stressing that legal matters should be resolved in court rather than through public speculation.
“The ICPC conducts its duties with the highest professionalism and respect for the rule of law,” the statement noted.
The agency urged the public to rely on verified updates and official communication channels regarding the case.
— Newspot Nigeria
