“This is the weaponisation of state institutions against political participation. It is illegal. It is unconstitutional,” stated a spokesman for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) regarding the ongoing detention of Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai.
El-Rufai has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for over 30 days, following an initial remand order granted for 14 days to investigate allegations of money laundering and abuse of office. The ICPC clarified that it did not seek a fresh remand for El-Rufai on March 17, 2026, as his legal team requested an adjournment to respond to the commission’s filing.
The court had previously extended El-Rufai’s remand on March 5, 2026, after his legal team attempted to set aside the initial order on March 9, 2026, but that request was dismissed. The ADC has described El-Rufai’s continued detention as illegal and unconstitutional, threatening to petition human rights groups if he is not released immediately.
El-Rufai, who celebrated Eid-el-Kabir in detention, was taken into custody shortly after being released from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The ADC claims that his detention is an attempt to coerce him into abandoning his political choices.
In response to the allegations surrounding his detention, the ICPC stated, “The remand of Mr El-Rufai has been authorised by a court of law in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.” They maintain that El-Rufai’s detention is legal under this act, asserting compliance with all court directives regarding his case.
Furthermore, the ADC spokesman emphasized, “Freedom is not a privilege that is granted at the pleasure of the executive branch. It is a right that is guaranteed by the Constitution.” This statement underscores the political tensions surrounding El-Rufai’s case.
The ADC also remarked, “The continued violation of the fundamental rights of Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai is a stain on the conscience of our democracy.” As the situation develops, the ADC’s actions and the ICPC’s legal stance will likely continue to be scrutinized.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further legal proceedings or potential resolutions in El-Rufai’s case.