The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as a violation of his fundamental human rights.
The party also threatened to petition international rights organisations, including Amnesty International, over the matter.
El-Rufai, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and now a member of the ADC, has reportedly been in custody for over 30 days.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the detention as illegal and unconstitutional. It alleged that there were attempts to pressure the former governor into abandoning his political affiliations.
The ADC urged the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to uphold the rule of law by either releasing El-Rufai or charging him to court to enable him defend himself.
The party warned that prolonged detention without formal charges reflects authoritarian tendencies and undermines democratic governance. It added that such actions risk eroding public confidence in public institutions.
According to the ADC, El-Rufai initially honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before being rearrested by the ICPC. The party noted that more than a month later, he remains in custody without arraignment.
It further alleged that the former governor has faced restricted access to family members and medical care, alongside pressure to relinquish his political rights.
The ADC accused the government of using state institutions to suppress political opposition, stressing that rights to personal liberty, fair hearing and political participation must be protected.
Calling on Bola Tinubu to demonstrate commitment to democratic principles, the party demanded El-Rufai’s immediate release or prompt arraignment in a competent court.
The party also urged Nigerians to defend democratic values, warning that failure to uphold constitutional rights could set a dangerous precedent and signal a drift from democratic governance.
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