SAN Adeboro Adamson says ICPC acted lawfully detaining former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 and court-approved extensions

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Adeboro Adamson has stated that the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) was lawful, noting that the law permits 14-day court-approved remand extensions.

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Adamson clarifying that the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 allows law enforcement to hold suspects for an initial 14 days, with possible extensions of 14 days at a time, without public notification.

“Well, let’s look at what the Constitution says first. Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the right to personal liberty, but it is not absolute. The law allows law enforcement to derogate under specific conditions,” Adamson explained.

He added that ICPC can apply to the court for a remand order, and if the investigation is not concluded after 28 days, further 14-day extensions are possible with compelling reasons.

“If ICPC is done with their investigation within 14 days, they can prosecute or release the suspect. If not, they can request another 14-day extension without informing the public,” he said.

Adamson emphasised that explanations for detention extensions are given to the court, not to the public.

“The explanation is to the court, not the public. The court decides whether the extension is justified,” he stated.

The SAN also addressed concerns over selective justice, stressing that all citizens are subject to the law.

“The law is a leveller, and nobody is above it. Justice should apply irrespective of class or status,” he said.

He noted that any suspect who believes they are wrongly detained has the right to approach the court for redress.

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“Where there is reasonable suspicion of crime, law enforcement agencies have the authority to arrest and detain, but legal remedies exist for any wrongful detention,” Adamson explained.