Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate release of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, describing his continued detention as unfair and politically provocative.
Atiku, in a statement issued through his media aide, said keeping El-Rufai in detention during a period meant for compassion, reconciliation, and family reunion was “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling.” He urged the Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities to uphold justice, due process, and democratic principles.
The former vice president warned against the alleged use of state institutions to intimidate political opponents, stressing that democracy should not be used to punish dissenting voices or settle political scores.
Atiku further stated that if El-Rufai’s detention was based on a lawful process, authorities should be transparent with Nigerians and ensure that his constitutional rights, including access to family, medical care, and legal representation, are protected.
El-Rufai is currently facing corruption and money laundering charges before a Federal High Court in Kaduna alongside a co-defendant, Joel Adoga. Both men have pleaded not guilty to the allegations.
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