By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, urging the federal government to clarify his whereabouts and condition.
In a statement, Atiku highlighted that El-Rufai’s health and welfare have become a source of anxiety for his family, friends, and associates.
He called on the Nigerian government to disclose which agency is responsible for the former governor’s detention—whether it is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the State Security Service (DSS), or any other body.
“The federal government owes Nigerians clarity,” Atiku said, warning that secrecy around detentions can fuel suspicion and undermine public trust.
He stressed that the responsible agency has a constitutional duty to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, preserve his dignity, and provide access to medical care, family, and legal counsel.
The former VP described reports of El-Rufai suffering a nosebleed in custody, while allegedly being denied family access, as “deeply troubling” and unacceptable in a democratic society.
Atiku further stated that if authorities cannot guarantee the former governor’s fundamental rights, he should be granted bail immediately.
He also cautioned that the government would be held accountable should any harm come to El-Rufai.
The former VP warned against what he described as selective prosecution, alleging that opposition figures face aggressive targeting while others enjoy impunity.
“The anti-corruption campaign must not become a political weapon,” he said, emphasizing that accountability efforts must be transparent, even-handed, and free from political bias.
Meanwhile, an aide to El-Rufai, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed that the former governor remains in detention, noting that the ICPC has yet to act on his bail application.
El-Rufai was initially detained by the EFCC after responding to an invitation on February 16, 2026, before being transferred to ICPC custody.
Adekeye stated that despite submitting a formal bail request following interrogation, El-Rufai’s legal team has not received a response, and no remand order has been presented to justify the continued detention.
He noted that the constitutional 48-hour limit for holding a suspect without charge has already passed.
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