ADC Critiques Detention of Former Governor El-Rufai
The Kaduna branch of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has voiced strong opposition to the ongoing detention of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, asserting that it represents politically motivated persecution. During a press conference held in Kaduna on Tuesday, party officials characterized the situation as a “sustained persecution, harassment, and politically motivated actions” aimed at El-Rufai and other opposition leaders.
Background on El-Rufai’s Custody
El-Rufai has been in custody since February 17, facing indictment by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) on charges related to corruption. His detention has sparked significant controversy, attracting scrutiny from various political groups.
Political Motivations Behind the Charges
Professor Sani Bello, representing the ADC’s state leadership, emphasized that the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s situation indicate a systematic effort to silence opposition voices. He stated, “The actions against El-Rufai represent a systematic attempt to undermine his character, reputation, and political standing.”
Concerns Over Abuse of State Institutions
Bello further highlighted a troubling pattern involving potential abuse of state institutions and a blatant disregard for due process. He cited instances of “unwarranted contempt of ministers” and actions from the Kaduna State House of Assembly that appear to follow a politically motivated agenda, resulting in charges lacking substantive merit.
Wider Campaign of Intimidation
The ADC did not stop with El-Rufai alone; it also condemned the arrests of several individuals associated with him, including Bashir Saidu, Jaafar Ibrahim Sani, and Jimmy Lawal. Bello characterized these arrests as part of a broader intimidation strategy designed to erode political opposition.
Misuse of Anti-Corruption Agencies
The party expressed deep concern over what it alleges to be the misuse of anti-corruption and security agencies in this campaign against El-Rufai. Despite persistent efforts, the authorities have reportedly failed to provide credible evidence that could harm El-Rufai’s reputation while continuing to impose legal and procedural burdens on him and his associates.
Human Rights Violations in Detention
Bello labeled El-Rufai’s prolonged detention—now exceeding 58 days—as inhumane and degrading. He enumerated specific violations, including the unjust denial of bail conditions and the arbitrary transfers between facilities that disregarded the former governor’s age and health. Such treatment, he argued, contravenes established legal standards regarding human dignity, fair hearings, and protection against cruel treatment.
In light of these issues, the ADC is demanding an immediate end to all forms of harassment, intimidation, and politically motivated prosecutions directed at El-Rufai and other opposition figures.
