Court to Rule on ICPC’s Request for 14‑Day Detention Extension for El‑Rufai

A Magistrate Court in Abuja is set to deliver a ruling on Tuesday, March 17, regarding the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)’s request to extend the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El‑Rufai, by another 14 days.

The court, presided over by Magistrate Okechukwu Akweke, will decide whether to approve or reject the ICPC’s application as the anti‑graft agency continues its probe into allegations against El‑Rufai, including money laundering, abuse of office, and illegal interception of communications linked to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

El‑Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 18, 2026, following an earlier 14‑day remand order obtained from a Magistrate Court in Bwari, Abuja. That initial remand expired on March 5, 2026, prompting ICPC to seek a fresh extension as investigations continue.

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The former governor’s legal team, relatives, and supporters have criticised the continued detention, describing it as unlawful. They argue that since the initial remand expired, El‑Rufai should either be released or formally charged before a competent court. In response, he has filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, naming the ICPC, EFCC, DSS, and Attorney-General of the Federation as respondents.

The ICPC maintains that it is acting within the law, insisting that the fresh 14‑day remand order is valid and necessary to conclude ongoing investigations, which involve forensic examination of electronic devices, financial records, and other evidence recovered from El‑Rufai’s Abuja residence. The agency has filed an inventory listing 67 items retrieved during the search, including laptops, phones, and storage devices.

El‑Rufai’s lawyers, however, contend that some of the searches were irregular, violating his constitutional rights, and have challenged the admissibility of the evidence in court. The FCT High Court is also considering claims for ₦1 billion in damages for alleged rights violations related to the searches.

Observers say the outcome of Tuesday’s ruling will be critical in determining whether El‑Rufai remains in ICPC custody beyond March 19, or whether he will be released or granted bail while legal proceedings continue. The case has drawn national attention, highlighting ongoing debates over anti-corruption investigations, rule of law, and the rights of former public officials.

Court to Rule on ICPC’s Request for 14‑Day Detention Extension for El‑Rufai

Tinubu Orders Nationwide Free Rice Distribution for Ramadan, Lent Support

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA), a political support group aligned with his administration, to implement a nationwide free rice distribution programme aimed at assisting Nigerians observing Ramadan and Lenten fasts.

The directive, announced on Saturday by Senator Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State and Director-General of RHA, emphasizes the government’s commitment to national unity, social solidarity, and interfaith inclusivity. According to Uzodinma, the initiative is designed to ensure that families across Nigeria feel the spirit of togetherness and compassion during these spiritually significant periods.

“Ramadan and Lent are seasons that remind us of sacrifice, charity, and care for one another. Through this distribution, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will ensure that families across Nigeria benefit from the intervention,” the statement read.

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The programme will be coordinated through the RHA’s nationwide grassroots network, in partnership with state and local authorities, traditional leaders, and community groups, to guarantee transparent and equitable delivery. Both Christian and Muslim communities will be included, reflecting President Tinubu’s focus on religious harmony and inclusivity.

Officials noted that the initiative follows the success of a similar distribution carried out during the recent Christmas season, which aimed to ease the burden of vulnerable households during key festive and religious periods. Analysts welcomed the move, highlighting that it addresses food security concerns amid rising prices of staples and demonstrates government responsiveness to citizens’ needs.

The distribution is expected to cover low-income families, the elderly, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), providing crucial support to those most affected by economic challenges. The Federal Government, through the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, has committed to ensuring the programme reaches every state and local community across Nigeria.

Governor Uzodinma reassured the public that the exercise is being implemented with full accountability and oversight, encouraging citizens to participate by helping identify households in need. The initiative is also intended to strengthen the sense of national unity by fostering a culture of generosity and shared responsibility during the holy periods of fasting.

Tinubu Orders Nationwide Free Rice Distribution for Ramadan, Lent Support

Police Launch Forensic Investigation Into Fatal Osogbo Shooting

The Nigeria Police Force has launched a forensic investigation following the death of a resident in Osogbo, Osun State, during a customs anti-smuggling operation on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The inquiry aims to determine the exact circumstances that led to the shooting and ensure accountability.

The incident occurred in the Dada Estate area, where officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Oyo/Osun Area Command were conducting a routine patrol targeting suspected smuggled vehicles. During the operation, a confrontation with civilians escalated, resulting in gunfire that led to a fatality. Details of who fired first remain under investigation.

Two customs officers, Kolawole Suuti and Danjuma Samuel, have been detained by the police to assist in the inquiry. Investigators have recovered a Beretta pistol (Breech Number 125024) and 9mm ballistic evidence, which are now undergoing specialised forensic analysis to determine the sequence of events and whether the use of force complied with the Rules of Engagement (ROE).

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Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, confirmed that the investigation, led by the Osun State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), will adhere to the highest forensic standards. He emphasized that while the NCS performs legitimate anti-smuggling duties, the protection of human life remains paramount.

The NCS also called for a joint, transparent investigation and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, stressing that the incident should not be sensationalized as an inter-agency conflict.

Both agencies have expressed their commitment to cooperate fully with the investigation, while extending condolences to the family of the deceased. Authorities are also appealing to members of the public with credible information to come forward to assist the forensic process.

The incident underscores the need for stricter operational protocols during enforcement activities and has reignited discussions on security, accountability, and civilian protection during anti-smuggling operations in Nigeria.

Police Launch Forensic Investigation Into Fatal Osogbo Shooting