The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) issued a statement refuting claims that it had sought a new court order to extend the detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai. This clarification was made by John Odey, the Head of Media and Public Communication at the ICPC, in response to reports circulating about a supposed request for further remand. The statement highlighted that the commission had appeared in court on March 17, 2026, to address an application filed by El-Rufai the previous month, aiming to overturn a remand order that had been granted just prior to that date.

During the court proceedings, it was noted that the lawyers representing El-Rufai were served with ICPC's response to his application on March 17. Subsequently, the defense requested an adjournment to allow them the necessary time to evaluate the commission's reply thoroughly. The magistrate granted this request and scheduled the next hearing for March 31, 2026, to provide the former governor's legal team ample time to prepare their case against the ICPC's opposition to the overturning of the remand order.

The incident underscores the ongoing legal challenges faced by El-Rufai, a prominent political figure in Nigeria, as he navigates accusations that have led to his detention. The ICPC's statement serves to clarify misinformation and ensure that the public is accurately informed about the proceedings surrounding the former governor's legal status, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the judicial process concerning high-profile figures in Nigeria.