Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has alleged that security operatives are planning to arrest former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai during his scheduled appearance at the Federal High Court in Abuja. In a statement released early Monday, Frank claimed that intelligence reports indicated operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) might attempt to take el-Rufai into custody at the court premises.
Allegation of Coordinated Arrest Plan
Frank asserted that the move is part of a broader political scheme orchestrated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. He claimed that arrangements had been finalized ahead of the court appearance before Justice M.B. Idris. According to Frank, the DSS has allegedly concluded plans to forcefully take el-Rufai into custody from the Federal High Court, where he is expected to appear. He further stated that security personnel had already held meetings to finalize what he described as an alleged arrest operation.
Warning Over Court Orders and Due Process
The former APC spokesman argued that any attempt to arrest el-Rufai at the court could conflict with existing judicial directives, which place the former governor under the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Frank warned that such an action would undermine the rule of law and escalate political tensions. He reiterated that nothing must happen to el-Rufai, adding that it is becoming increasingly obvious that he is being treated as a political target of the current administration.
Frank emphasized that the President, security agencies, and the Kaduna State Government must remember that power is transient and nothing lasts forever. He called for the protection of el-Rufai's rights and adherence to due process.
Call for Public and International Attention
Frank urged civil society groups, northern leaders, religious organizations, and the international community to closely monitor developments around the case. He said any forced arrest at the court premises would represent a breach of judicial authority. He called on Nigerians, northern leaders, civil society groups, religious leaders, and all lovers of justice and democracy to rise against oppression and selective justice.
Advocacy Against Selective Justice
While clarifying that he supports anti-corruption efforts, Frank insisted that such actions must be carried out fairly and within the confines of the law. He stated that the fight against corruption must be fair, just, balanced, and devoid of political persecution. He referenced German pastor Martin Niemöller, quoting his famous warning about silence in the face of injustice, to emphasize the dangers of ignoring alleged political victimization. Frank maintained that el-Rufai should not be singled out and warned that those in authority could be held accountable if anything untoward happens to him.
