The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, describing it as a violation of fundamental human rights.
In a statement issued to Naija News by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that El-Rufai has been held in custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for over 30 days without formal charges.
The party described the detention as illegal and unconstitutional, accusing authorities of attempting to coerce the former governor into abandoning his political affiliations.
It called on the ICPC to immediately release El-Rufai or arraign him in court.
“Detaining a citizen interminably is the hallmark of dictatorship and has no place in a democracy,” the statement said.
According to the ADC, the continued detention without arraignment undermines key constitutional rights, including the right to liberty, fair hearing and political participation.
The party alleged that El-Rufai has been held under conditions that restrict access to his family and medical care.
It further claimed that his detention was being used as a tool to suppress political participation.
“This is not law enforcement. This is the weaponisation of state institutions against political participation,” the party stated.
The ADC warned that it would petition Amnesty International and other international human rights bodies if the situation is not addressed.
It maintained that Nigeria’s democratic principles were being undermined by what it described as selective justice and abuse of power.
The party also challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate commitment to the rule of law.
It called on relevant state actors, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the ICPC leadership, to comply with constitutional provisions.
According to the ADC, institutions like the ICPC were established to fight corruption, not to be used for political purposes.
The party insisted that the only lawful options available are either to release El-Rufai or arraign him before a competent court.
“We demand the immediate release of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, or his immediate arraignment in a court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing more. Nothing less,” the statement said.
The ADC further urged Nigerians to defend democratic values, warning that the erosion of rights could spread if not addressed.
It added that safeguarding constitutional rights remains critical to preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
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