Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to either arraign former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai in court without delay or release him. The group made the demand in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola.
MURIC condemned the prolonged detention of El-Rufai, arguing that Nigerian law allows a maximum of 48 hours for an accused person to be held in custody before being produced in court. It described the continued detention as contrary to legal provisions.
According to the statement, El-Rufai voluntarily reported to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, February 16, 2026, and was released on Wednesday, February 18. However, he was reportedly picked up by the ICPC the same day.
MURIC insisted that the anti-graft agency should promptly bring the former governor before a court of competent jurisdiction if there are charges to answer. It urged authorities to respect constitutional provisions on fundamental rights.
The group also called on the Federal Government to uphold democratic principles, including respect for the rule of law, freedom of movement and freedom of expression, as guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
