El-Rufai Family Demands Immediate Release from ICPC Custody

The family of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has publicly declared his continued detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) as unlawful, demanding his immediate release. They assert that the legal basis for his detention has expired, with a remand order obtained on February 19, 2026, lapsing without any charges being filed.

El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 16, 2026, after being transferred from the EFCC on February 18. The family claims that the ICPC has failed to honor its commitment not to secure a fresh detention order, and they allege that the commission is using its powers for political persecution rather than impartial justice.

El-Rufai's legal team has issued a pre-action notice accusing the ICPC of contempt of court and malicious prosecution, seeking damages of N15.6 billion. The ICPC maintains that its actions are within its statutory mandate, with plans to file charges against El-Rufai by March 5, 2026.