Anti-graft agency says former Kaduna governor remains in lawful custody as court proceedings continue…
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified that it did not seek a fresh extension of former Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai’s remand in court on March 17, 2026, dismissing reports circulating in the media.
In a statement, the Commission explained that its appearance in court was related to an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, seeking to overturn a remand order renewed on March 5. The ICPC said its legal team submitted a response to the court, after which the defence requested an adjournment to review the Commission’s submission. The Magistrate subsequently adjourned the matter to March 31, 2026.
The initial remand, the ICPC noted, granted 14 days for investigation into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Upon its expiration, the court approved an additional 14-day extension on March 5 to allow the Commission to conclude its probe. An earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s counsel to set aside the February 19 remand order was dismissed on March 9.
The Commission stressed that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under the existing court order and affirmed that all actions are in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.
Reiterating its commitment to due process, the ICPC stated that it does not engage in media trials and urged the public to rely on verified official updates rather than unconfirmed reports.