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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has asserted that it did not seek an extension of the detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, during court proceedings held in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a press statement signed by ICPC spokesperson John Okor Odey, issued on Tuesday night, the commission explained that an initial 14-day remand order was granted to allow investigation into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Upon its expiration, the court approved a further 14-day extension on March 5.
Odey noted that the clarification was necessary to counter what he described as inaccurate reports suggesting it had returned to court to request a further extension of El-Rufai’s detention.
DETENTION OF MALLAM NASIR EL-RUFAI: ICPC SETS THE RECORD
STRAIGHT ON COURT PROCEEDINGS IN ABUJA, NIGERIA pic.twitter.com/xVCCxSgdby— ICPC Nigeria (@icpcnigeria) March 17, 2026
“The Commission appeared in Court today for the hearing of Mallam El-Rufai’s application, dated and filed on 6th March 2026, which seeks to overturn the court order renewing his remand issued on 5th March 2026,” the statement read in part.
“During today’s proceedings, counsel to Mr El-Rufai was served with our response to his application. The lawyer subsequently requested an adjournment to respond to the Commission’s response. Consequently, the Magistrate adjourned the hearing of the application to 31st March 2026 to allow Mr El-Rufai’s team sufficient time to react to our response.”
It added that an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to overturn the initial remand order of February 19 was dismissed on March 9.
The ICPC added that the former governor remains in its custody under a valid court order issued on March 5, adding that it is adhering strictly to the court-approved timeline and legal procedures, including the submission of progress reports as required.
“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. The remand of Mr El-Rufai has been authorised by a court of law in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015,” Odey added.
The spokesperson also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to rely on official updates from the ICPC.
