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Atiku Abubakar Demands Transparency on Nasir El-Rufai’s Detention and Health Status
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has publicly urged the Nigerian Federal Government to provide clear information regarding the current location and medical condition of Nasir El-Rufai, the ex-governor of Kaduna State. This call comes amid swirling rumors and concerns about El-Rufai’s reported detention.
Clarification on Custody and Responsible Agencies
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 24, Atiku highlighted the growing unease among El-Rufai’s family, friends, and political allies due to the lack of official communication. He pressed the government to specify which security or anti-corruption body is holding the former governor—whether it be the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), State Security Service (SSS), or another agency.
The Need for Transparency to Restore Public Confidence
Atiku emphasized that Nigerians deserve openness regarding detentions, warning that secrecy only breeds suspicion and erodes trust in public institutions. He underscored that any agency detaining El-Rufai is constitutionally obligated to ensure his safety, uphold his dignity, and protect his rights, including access to medical treatment, family visits, and legal representation.
Concerns Over Reported Health Issues and Denied Access
Reports have emerged alleging that El-Rufai experienced a nosebleed while in custody and that his relatives were barred from seeing him. Atiku described these claims as deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society that respects human rights. He insisted that such treatment violates fundamental principles of justice and humane detention.
Call for Bail if Welfare Cannot Be Assured
Should the authorities be unable to guarantee El-Rufai’s well-being and basic rights, Atiku demanded that he be released on bail immediately. He warned that the government would bear full responsibility for any harm that might befall the former governor while in detention.
Addressing Allegations of Selective Prosecution
Beyond the immediate case, Atiku raised alarms about a perceived trend of selective enforcement of anti-corruption laws. He alleged that opposition politicians are disproportionately targeted, while others evade investigation, fueling concerns about political bias in the justice system.
Ensuring Fairness in Anti-Corruption Efforts
Atiku cautioned against the politicization of anti-corruption campaigns, stressing that accountability mechanisms must be impartial, transparent, and equitable. “Justice must be transparent. Accountability must be even-handed. And the rule of law must apply to all — without fear or favour,” he declared, reinforcing the need for a fair judicial process.
Context and Broader Implications
In recent years, Nigeria has seen an increase in high-profile detentions linked to anti-corruption drives, with over 1,200 cases reported by the EFCC in 2023 alone. However, critics argue that these efforts sometimes serve political ends rather than genuine justice. Atiku’s intervention highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure that anti-corruption measures uphold democratic values and human rights.
