February 24, 2026 — SUNTV Global Channel | News
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El‑Rufai, has raised alarm over his continued detention, alleging that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has failed to respond to a formal bail application submitted by his legal team.
In a statement released late Monday by his Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, the former governor’s camp disclosed that El-Rufai has now spent eight days in custody after voluntarily honouring an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Detained Without Remand Order
According to the statement, El-Rufai reported to the EFCC on February 16, 2026, for questioning but has remained in custody since then. He was later transferred to ICPC detention on the night of February 18.
His lawyers claim that no remand order has been presented to justify his continued detention beyond the constitutionally allowed 48-hour window.
“As of today, his lawyers have received no response from the ICPC regarding his bail application,” Adekeye stated.
Legal Battles Loom
The coming days are expected to be critical for the former governor, with multiple court proceedings scheduled.
A fundamental rights suit filed against the Federal Government, ICPC, EFCC, and the Department of State Services (DSS) is set for hearing on February 25 at the FCT High Court. The case seeks an order compelling authorities to grant El-Rufai bail.
He is also expected to face arraignment on charges reportedly filed by the DSS.
Dispute Over House Search
The statement further revealed that ICPC officials conducted a search of El-Rufai’s residence on Aso Drive on February 19.
His legal team has since approached a Federal High Court to nullify the search warrant, arguing that it was defective and violated his fundamental rights.
The suit names the ICPC, the FCT Chief Magistrate, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation as respondents.
Chronology Of Events
Adekeye provided a timeline leading to the detention:
- February 12: El-Rufai’s passport was allegedly seized at the airport during a failed arrest attempt.
- February 16: He voluntarily appeared at the EFCC office.
- February 18: He was transferred from EFCC to ICPC custody.
- February 19: ICPC officials searched his residence.
- February 20: Further interrogation took place and bail application was filed.
His lawyers also alleged restricted access to him during detention and claimed he experienced a medical episode involving nose bleeding while in custody.
Awaiting Official Response
As of press time, neither the ICPC nor the EFCC has issued an official statement addressing the allegations surrounding El-Rufai’s continued detention or the status of his bail request.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments in this high-profile case.
