The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned that President Bola Tinubu and his administration would be held accountable if any harm befalls former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, amid what it described as his prolonged detention and deteriorating health.
The opposition party, through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, alleged that the Federal Government was deliberately keeping El-Rufai in custody as part of a broader effort to weaken opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Abdullahi maintained that while the ADC does not oppose the prosecution of anyone with a legitimate case to answer, the continued detention of El-Rufai despite facing bailable offences raises serious concerns about the government’s intentions.
According to him, repeated court appearances and what he described as stringent bail conditions suggest a deliberate attempt to keep the former governor behind bars indefinitely.
“If anything happens to Nasir El-Rufai while in custody, President Tinubu and his administration will be held responsible,” Abdullahi said, expressing concern over reports regarding the former governor’s health.
The party further claimed that El-Rufai’s continued detention is politically motivated and intended to diminish the strength of the opposition before Nigerians head to the polls in 2027.
The Federal Government has consistently maintained that anti-corruption agencies and other law enforcement institutions operate independently and in accordance with the law. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has also previously denied allegations of political persecution, insisting that its actions are guided strictly by due process.
The development adds another layer to the growing political tension between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.
