Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as “unjust, cruel and politically motivated.”
In a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani to immediately release the former governor, insisting that his detention amounts to an abuse of state power and a threat to democratic values.
Atiku warned that the situation is particularly concerning given the timing of the Eid al-Kabir celebrations, saying the government must not weaponise state institutions against citizens.
He stated that: “At a time when Muslims are preparing for Eid Kabir, it is unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power against a citizen without just cause.”
He further stressed that: “Mallam El-Rufai remains a Nigerian citizen entitled to full constitutional protection, including liberty and due process.”
Atiku also criticised what he described as selective justice, warning that it undermines democracy and public trust in governance.
He said: “Democracy does not allow government to punish dissent or use coercive institutions for intimidation or political score-settling.”
According to him, if El-Rufai is being held under any legal process, authorities must provide full transparency to Nigerians, adding that secrecy fuels suspicions of political persecution.
He also noted that Eid represents a period of mercy and reconciliation, arguing that no citizen should be denied freedom during such a sacred time without clear justification.
The former Vice President therefore urged the Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities to act in the interest of justice, peace, and national cohesion by ensuring El-Rufai’s immediate release.