El-Rufai’s family demands his release, says ICPC detention has no legal basis

The family of Nasir El‑Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, has called for his immediate and unconditional release from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), arguing that his continued detention lacks legal backing.

In a statement issued on Friday, the family said the former governor was initially taken into custody on February 18 before the anti-corruption agency obtained a remand order from a magistrate’s court the following day.

The statement was signed by Bello El‑Rufai, a member of the House of Representatives of Nigeria representing Kaduna North federal constituency.

Family says remand order has expired

According to the family, the remand order granted on February 19 allowed only a 14-day detention period, which they say has now expired without the ICPC filing charges against the former governor in a competent court.

“As of today, March 6, 2026, Nasir El-Rufai remains in ICPC custody under circumstances that have no basis in law. We state categorically that there is currently no valid legal instrument authorizing his detention,” the statement read.

They described the remand order as “defective” from the outset and argued that the agency has neither filed charges nor secured a fresh court order to justify continued detention.

Read also: ICPC Recovers Wiretapping Kit From El-Rufai, Detains Him

Allegations of political persecution

The family further alleged that the anti-graft agency is being used as a tool for political persecution rather than acting as an impartial institution.

“Despite the expiration of any legal cover for his detention, the ICPC persists in holding him. This is no longer a matter of lawful procedure; it is unlawful, brazen self-help,” the statement added.

They insisted that the logical next step for the commission is to either charge him before a court of competent jurisdiction or release him immediately.

Investigation dispute continues

El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 19 after he was previously released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

On Thursday, the former governor told the anti-corruption agency that the investigation against him was politically motivated.

He has also challenged the legality of a search conducted at his residence in Abuja on February 19 as part of the investigation.