An aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government to release former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that his continued detention for 144 days is unjustified and inconsistent with the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
In a statement, the aide urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to order El-Rufai’s unconditional release, arguing that every Nigerian is entitled to constitutional rights, including due process and a fair hearing.
The aide maintained that prolonged detention without a conclusive judicial process raises concerns about the protection of civil liberties and could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions. He called on relevant authorities to ensure that legal proceedings are conducted transparently and in accordance with the law.
The comments have sparked fresh political debate, with supporters and critics expressing differing views on the matter. While some believe the government should allow legal processes to run their course, others have echoed calls for greater respect for constitutional safeguards and human rights.
Political analysts say the development reflects the growing political discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections, as prominent opposition figures continue to comment on governance, justice and the state of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
As of the time of this report, the Federal Government had not issued an official response to the latest appeal. Likewise, security and judicial authorities had yet to publicly address the claims surrounding El-Rufai’s reported detention.
Observers note that cases involving high-profile political figures often attract significant public attention and underscore the importance of balancing national security considerations with the protection of individual rights.
The latest statement is expected to intensify discussions on due process, judicial independence and the need for transparency in handling politically sensitive cases, as Nigerians continue to monitor developments closely.
