Lawyers Demand Charges or Release for El-Rufai

Lawyers representing former governor Bello El-Rufai have called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to either formally charge him or release him from detention. El-Rufai has been held since February 18, 2026, under a 14-day remand order obtained by the ICPC, which is set to expire on March 5, 2026.

His legal counsel, led by Ubong Akpan, argues that the ICPC has not provided any legal basis for his continued detention, as no fresh orders have been obtained. They assert that the ICPC's actions violate El-Rufai's fundamental rights.

The ICPC has not responded to requests for comment. Legal experts, including Abba Hikima and Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim, emphasize that suspects should not be held without charges and that the ICPC must adhere to constitutional provisions regarding detention.

The situation raises significant legal concerns regarding the ICPC's adherence to the rule of law and the rights of individuals under investigation.