ADC Denounces El-Rufai's Prolonged Detention as Severe Human Rights Breach
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, labeling it a grave violation of his fundamental human rights. According to the party, the Independent Corrupt Practices and other offences Commission (ICPC) has held the ADC chieftain for more than 30 days without formal charges or arraignment, sparking outrage over alleged political persecution.
ADC Threatens International Action Over Rights Abuses
In a statement released by the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described El-Rufai's detention as illegal and unconstitutional, accusing authorities of attempting to coerce him into abandoning his political affiliations. The ADC has vowed to escalate the matter by writing to Amnesty International and other global human rights organizations if El-Rufai is not released immediately, emphasizing that such actions undermine Nigeria's democratic principles.
Details of El-Rufai's Detention and Alleged Coercion
The statement revealed that El-Rufai initially honored an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in good faith, only to be taken into custody by the ICPC two days after his release. Over a month later, he remains detained without access to family or medical care, facing what the ADC claims are pressures to renounce his political rights as a condition for freedom. This, the party argues, represents a dangerous weaponization of state institutions against political participation.
ADC Calls for Upholding Rule of Law and Constitutional Rights
The ADC has called on the ICPC and other relevant agencies, including the National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to adhere strictly to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They demand El-Rufai's immediate release or his prompt arraignment in a competent court, warning that indefinite detention without charge is a hallmark of dictatorship, not democracy. The party urged all Nigerians to unite in defense of constitutional rights, cautioning that today's target could be anyone perceived as a threat to President Bola Tinubu's political agenda.
Criticism of Tinubu Government's Democratic Credentials
In a scathing rebuke, the ADC accused President Bola Tinubu's administration of mirroring the abuses once resisted by pro-democracy groups like NADECO. They highlighted the irony of a president who once fought against military dictatorship now overseeing actions that erode human rights and the rule of law. The party questioned the government's commitment to democracy, especially as it seeks another mandate, and called for transparency in governance to prevent further erosion of freedoms.
