As Nigerian Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid Al Adha 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the federal government and Kaduna state authorities of practicing selective injustice. In a statement released on Friday, May 15, Atiku called for the immediate release of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who is currently detained by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Abuja.
Atiku Condemns El-Rufai's Detention
Atiku, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), described El-Rufai's detention as a disturbing assault on civil liberties and democratic decency. He expressed grave concerns about the deployment of state power to intimidate political adversaries. The statement, signed by his senior special assistant on public communication, Phrank Shaibu, urged President Bola Tinubu's administration to act magnanimously during the Eid season.
Eid Message of Mercy and Justice
“At a time when millions of Muslims across Nigeria and the world are preparing for Eid-el-Kabir, a sacred season of sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family reunion, it would be unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power to deny a citizen his liberty without just cause,” the statement read. It emphasised that El-Rufai, regardless of political differences, is entitled to the full protection of the Constitution, including rights to dignity, liberty, and due process.
The statement further warned: “The Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities must understand that selective justice is injustice. The credibility of any democracy is measured not by how it treats loyalists, but by how it treats perceived opponents. If Mallam El-Rufai is being held on the basis of any legitimate legal process, the authorities owe Nigerians full transparency. If not, his continued detention reinforces fears that our democracy is sliding toward intolerance and authoritarian excess. Eid is a time for mercy, reconciliation, and humanity.”
Background on El-Rufai's Detention
El-Rufai is being held by the ICPC over allegations of financial misconduct, including money laundering, abuse of office, and misappropriation of public funds during his tenure as governor. His detention has sparked widespread debate about the misuse of state power and political persecution in Nigeria's democracy.
Eid Al Adha 2026 Dates
Earlier reports from the Qatar Calendar House indicated that Monday, May 18, is expected to mark the beginning of Dhu Al-Hijjah 1447 AH, with Eid Al Adha forecast to begin on Wednesday, May 27. The Islamic lunar calendar determines the start and end of Hijri months based on the moon's movement.
Atiku's statement has amplified calls for El-Rufai's unconditional release, as the nation prepares for the Eid festivities.
