Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government and the Kaduna State Government to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing his continued detention ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling.”
Atiku, in a statement issued on Friday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said El-Rufai’s detention raises concerns over civil liberties, democratic principles, and the rule of law.
The former vice president, who is also a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warned against the use of state institutions to intimidate perceived political opponents.
“At a time when millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir a sacred season of sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family reunion it would be unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power in a manner that denies a citizen his liberty without just cause,” Atiku said.
He added that Eid-el-Kabir is a period associated with mercy, reconciliation, and humanity, stressing that there was no justification for keeping El-Rufai away from his family during such a significant religious celebration, especially where due process had not been clearly established.
“I therefore call for the immediate release of Mallam El-Rufai and urge all relevant authorities to rise above political bitterness and act in the interest of justice, peace, and national cohesion,” he stated.
Atiku further argued that democracy should be judged by how perceived opponents are treated, warning that selective justice could weaken public confidence in the rule of law.
According to him, if El-Rufai’s detention is based on a legal process, authorities owe Nigerians transparency regarding the matter.
“Mallam El-Rufai, regardless of political differences or shifting alliances, remains a Nigerian citizen entitled to the full protection of the Constitution, including his rights to dignity, liberty, and due process,” he said.
The former vice president also cautioned against using government institutions to settle political scores or suppress dissenting voices.
The call for El-Rufai’s release comes one week after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission disclosed that a Federal High Court in Kaduna granted the former governor access to medical treatment while in custody.
The ruling followed an application by his defence counsel during proceedings in his ongoing trial over alleged money laundering and corruption-related offences.
Elijah Adeyemi
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