The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has clarified that the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, is lawful and based on a valid court order.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, the Commission’s spokesperson, Mr. Okor Odey, said El-Rufai’s continued detention was not based on a fresh directive but on an existing remand order.

Odey disclosed that the Commission appeared in court for the hearing of an application filed by El-Rufai on March 6, seeking to overturn a remand order granted on March 5.

He said the proceedings did not result in any new detention order, as the court adjourned the matter to March 31 after El-Rufai’s legal team requested time to respond to the Commission’s submission.

According to Odey, the initial remand order 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 order, the Commission applied for an extension, which was approved by the court on March 5,” he said.

He added that an earlier attempt by El-Rufai’s legal team to set aside the remand order issued on February 19 was dismissed on March 9.

Odey reaffirmed that El-Rufai remains in lawful custody under a valid court order and that all actions taken comply strictly with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.

“The Commission reiterates its commitment to due process and warns against the spread of misinformation. Legal matters should be resolved in court rather than through public speculation.

“The ICPC conducts its duties with the highest professionalism and respect for the rule of law. We urge the public to rely on official updates,” he added.