The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has maintained that all actions taken against former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, have strictly adhered to the law, including the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.
The ICPC clarified its position on Tuesday while addressing the continued detention of El-Rufai. In a statement by its spokesperson, Okor Odey, the Commission explained that El-Rufai’s detention is based on an existing court order, not a new directive.
Odey noted that the Commission appeared in court on Tuesday for the hearing of an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, seeking to overturn a remand order granted on March 5. According to him, the court did not issue a new detention order; instead, the matter was adjourned to March 31 at the request of El-Rufai’s legal team, who sought more time to respond to the Commission’s submission.
Odey further emphasized that the original remand order allowed the ICPC to detain and investigate El-Rufai for 14 days over allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. Upon expiration of that order, the Commission sought and obtained an extension from the court on March 5.
He also explained that a previous attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to set aside the remand order issued on February 19 was dismissed by the court on March 9.
Reaffirming the Commission’s stance, Odey stressed that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under a valid court order. The Commission reiterated its commitment to due process, cautioning against the spread of misinformation and emphasizing that legal matters should be settled in court, not through public speculation.
The ICPC carries out its duties with the utmost professionalism and respect for the rule of law. We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to rely on official updates from the Commission, Odey added.
(NAN)
