The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified that the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is based on a valid court order and not any fresh directive.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Okor Odey, the commission explained that it appeared in court on Tuesday to respond to an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, seeking to overturn an earlier remand order granted on March 5.
Odey noted that the court proceedings did not result in any new detention order. Instead, the case was adjourned to March 31 after El-Rufai’s legal team requested more time to respond to the commission’s submissions.
He further explained that the initial remand order had granted the ICPC 14 days to detain and investigate the former governor over allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Following the expiration of that period, the commission applied for an extension, which the court approved on March 5.
According to the ICPC, an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s lawyers to set aside a remand order issued on February 9 was dismissed by the court on March 9, reinforcing the legality of his continued custody.
Odey maintained that all actions taken by the commission are in line with the law, including the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. He stressed that the anti-graft agency remains committed to due process and urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation, noting that legal matters should be resolved in court.
Meanwhile, in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang has dismissed six of his appointees and suspended one as part of efforts to improve governance and service delivery.
The Secretary to the State Government, Samuel Jatau, said the affected officials have been directed to hand over all government property in their possession. He added that the governor appreciated their contributions and wished them well in their future endeavours.
