ICPC debunks claims of fresh detention order against El-Rufai

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has denied reports claiming it approached a court to obtain a new remand order for former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, John Odey, the commission described the reports as false and misleading.

It clarified that its appearance in court in Abuja on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, was solely to respond to an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, 2026.

According to the ICPC, the application sought to overturn a court order issued on March 5, 2026, which had extended El-Rufai’s detention.

The agency stressed that it did not request any fresh remand order during the proceedings.
During the hearing, El-Rufai’s legal team was served with the commission’s response.

His counsel then requested more time to prepare a reply, prompting the court to adjourn the matter until March 31, 2026.

The ICPC further explained that El-Rufai’s detention remains valid under an existing court order.

It noted that an initial 14-day remand was granted to allow investigation into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Upon expiration, the court approved an additional 14-day extension on March 5, 2026.

The commission also revealed that an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to set aside the initial remand order granted on February 19, 2026 was dismissed on March 9, 2026.

Reaffirming its position, the ICPC stated that El-Rufai is being held lawfully under a subsisting court order and that it is complying fully with legal requirements, including provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act governing detention and investigation procedures.