ICPC Denies Seeking Extension for El-Rufai's Detention

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) dismissed reports on March 18, 2026, claiming it sought a fresh court order to extend the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. ICPC spokesperson John Odei clarified that the commission's actions were in response to an application filed by El-Rufai's legal team on March 6, 2026, aimed at canceling a remand order granted on March 5, 2026.

During a court session, the defense counsel requested additional time to study the application, resulting in the magistrate postponing the matter until March 31, 2026. El-Rufai's current detention is based on an existing court order, following a 14-day remand approved for investigations into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office.

The ICPC noted that El-Rufai's legal team had previously attempted to cancel a remand order issued on February 19, 2026, which was rejected by the court on March 9, 2026. The commission emphasized compliance with legal procedures and the importance of handling the matter within the court system.