The El-Rufai Support Group Association (ERSGA) has hired a Washington-based advocacy firm, Vanguard Africa, to lead an international campaign over the detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai and what the group calls growing threats to the rule of law in Nigeria.
ERSGA Engages Vanguard Africa
According to Channels TV, ERSGA's Director of Strategic Partnerships, Mohammed Salisu, announced the engagement in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying Vanguard Africa would conduct outreach to officials in the United States administration, members of Congress, federal agencies, democracy-focused institutions, and multilateral organisations.
The group said its decision to seek international attention followed El-Rufai's detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission (ICPC) and what it described as delays in court proceedings related to his bail application.
Detention Concerns: ICPC and Bail Delays
ERSGA rejected the allegations brought against the former governor and maintained that he is innocent of any wrongdoing, arguing the case raises broader questions about judicial independence and the treatment of political figures in Nigeria's democratic system.
"The treatment of Governor El-Rufai is not an isolated incident — it is a symptom of a deeper crisis threatening Nigeria's democratic institutions," the group stated.
Vanguard Africa: Group's Choice of Advocacy Partner
ERSGA described Vanguard Africa as an organisation with experience advocating on behalf of political and pro-democracy figures across Africa, including the Gambian president, Niger's ousted president, and the Ugandan opposition leader.
The group called on the United States government, international institutions, and civil society organisations to monitor developments in Nigeria and support due process, judicial independence, and democratic governance.
2027 Elections: ERSGA's Warning on Democratic Process
ERSGA tied its concerns directly to preparations for Nigeria's 2027 general elections, arguing that the impartial application of the law is critical to maintaining public confidence in the country's democratic process.
The organisation said it intends to encourage closer scrutiny of developments in Nigeria by international partners and democracy advocates.
