ADC Condemns Alleged Political Persecution of El-Rufai and Opposition in Kaduna
The leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has voiced serious concerns over what it describes as the alleged persecution and harassment of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, along with other opposition figures. The party asserts that these actions are politically motivated and pose a significant threat to democratic principles in the state and across Nigeria.
Press Conference Highlights Allegations
During a press conference held in Kaduna on Tuesday, the ADC accused the government of orchestrating a sustained campaign targeting opposition members. The party warned that continued actions against these figures could undermine democracy and erode public trust in governance. In response, the ADC called on civil society organizations and the international community to closely monitor developments in Kaduna State and throughout Nigeria.
A chieftain of the party, Professor Sani Bello, who read the communiqué, stated that recent events indicate "a troubling pattern of abuse of state institutions, disregard for due process, and erosion of democratic norms." The ADC alleged that the actions taken against El-Rufai were politically motivated, aimed at undermining his reputation and influence.
Specific Concerns Raised by the ADC
The party outlined several key concerns, including:
- An "unjustifiable ministerial snub" and proceedings by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which it claimed resulted in "questionable charges lacking substantive merit."
- The arrest and detention of several associates of the former governor, such as Bashir Saidu, Ja'afar Ibrahim Sani, and Jimmy Lawal. The ADC described this as part of a broader effort to intimidate opposition members.
- Alleged misuse of key federal agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Department of State Services (DSS). According to Professor Bello, these agencies have continued actions against El-Rufai and his associates despite what the party described as a lack of credible evidence.
Allegations of Rights Violations and Broader Crackdown
The ADC further claimed violations of fundamental rights, citing:
- Arbitrary detention and repeated transfers between Abuja and Kaduna.
- Inconsistent bail conditions, which the party insists contravene constitutional guarantees of fair hearing and human dignity.
- Attempts to obtain a fraudulent court order for arrest and criticism of prolonged detention under inhumane and degrading conditions.
Additionally, the party alleged a broader crackdown on opposition activities in Kaduna State, including arbitrary arrests and intimidation by security operatives. It accused security agencies of political interference and efforts to destabilize its internal structure through litigation and sponsored factional divisions.
Link to Governance Failures and Calls for Action
The ADC linked the alleged persecution to what it described as governance failures in the state, citing rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and unresolved farmer-herder conflicts. In response, the party called for:
- An immediate end to what it termed politically motivated actions.
- The release of those allegedly detained unlawfully.
- Strict adherence to the rule of law, restoration of democratic norms, respect for party autonomy, and ensuring the neutrality of state institutions.
The ADC's statements highlight growing tensions in Kaduna's political landscape, with implications for Nigeria's broader democratic health.
