Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
In a statement released on his official channels, Atiku said the continued detention of El-Rufai raised concerns about due process and the rule of law. He argued that political disagreements should not translate into actions that undermine constitutional rights and personal liberty.
“Regardless of political differences, no Nigerian should be subjected to arbitrary detention,” Atiku stated. “I urge President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani to ensure that Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is released without delay and allowed to answer any allegations through lawful channels.”
El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, has remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. His time in office was marked by policies on education, urban renewal, and security, as well as outspoken positions on national issues. Since leaving office, he has continued to comment publicly on governance and political developments.
Atiku’s appeal comes amid growing public debate over the handling of political figures and allegations of misuse of state institutions. He emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy depends on adherence to due process, independent judicial processes, and respect for fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution.
“The credibility of our institutions is tested in how we treat those with whom we disagree,” Atiku said. “If there are allegations against Mallam El-Rufai, they should be pursued transparently in court, not through detention outside the bounds of the law.”
The statement has sparked reactions across social and political circles, with supporters of El-Rufai echoing the call for his release and others urging restraint until official details are provided by authorities. As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency nor the Kaduna State Government had issued a formal response to Atiku’s demand.
Kaduna State has faced persistent security challenges in recent years, including banditry and communal violence. El-Rufai’s administration was known for its hardline stance against criminal groups, a policy that drew both support and criticism….See More
