The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned President Bola Tinubu that he will be held personally responsible if anything happens to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai while he remains in detention.
According to Daily Post, the warning came from the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who condemned El-Rufai’s continued detention and described the situation as unacceptable. He alleged that the Federal Government was using state institutions to intimidate opposition figures.
Abdullahi said the ADC was deeply concerned about reports surrounding El-Rufai’s welfare in custody. He maintained that the former governor deserves fair treatment and should enjoy the same constitutional rights guaranteed to every Nigerian.
The party spokesman stressed that El-Rufai voluntarily honoured the invitation of the relevant authorities. Therefore, he argued that there was no justification for keeping him in prolonged detention or subjecting him to conditions that could endanger his health.
According to Abdullahi, any attempt to mistreat the former governor would have serious political consequences. He insisted that President Tinubu would be held accountable if anything happened to El-Rufai during the course of his detention.
Furthermore, the ADC accused the Federal Government of weaponising anti-corruption agencies against political opponents. The party argued that the selective handling of investigations undermines public confidence in Nigeria’s justice system.
Abdullahi also called on security agencies and anti-graft bodies to uphold the rule of law. He said all suspects should receive equal treatment, regardless of their political affiliation or public status.
In addition, the ADC urged the authorities to respect El-Rufai’s fundamental human rights while investigations continue. The party maintained that due process should never be sacrificed for political interests.
Meanwhile, El-Rufai’s detention has continued to generate widespread reactions across the country’s political landscape. Several opposition leaders and supporters have questioned the circumstances surrounding his arrest and continued custody.
However, the relevant anti-corruption authorities have consistently defended their actions. They insist that every step taken in the investigation complies with the law and that the former governor is receiving appropriate treatment while in custody.
The agencies have also dismissed claims that El-Rufai has been denied access to medical care or family members. According to officials, standard detention procedures apply to all suspects without discrimination.
As political tensions continue to rise, the ADC has reiterated its demand for El-Rufai’s release or a transparent legal process. The party insisted that democracy can only thrive when justice is administered fairly and without political interference.
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The latest warning adds another layer to the growing political debate surrounding El-Rufai’s detention. It also highlights increasing concerns among opposition parties over what they describe as the shrinking space for political dissent in Nigeria.
