Atiku Calls for El-Rufai’s Release Ahead of Eid-el-Kabir, Describes Detention as Unjust

Atiku Abubakar calls for the immediate release of former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai ahead of Eid-el-Kabir, describing his continued detention as unjust and politically troubling.

By Chisom Adaeze

Atiku Abubakar has called on federal authorities and the Kaduna State Government to immediately release former Nasir El-Rufai ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, describing his continued detention as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling.”

In a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku argued that El-Rufai’s detention raises serious concerns about civil liberties, due process, and the use of state institutions against perceived political opponents.

The former vice president said it would be unacceptable for any government to deny a citizen his liberty during a major religious celebration without clear justification, particularly in circumstances that many observers may interpret as politically motivated.

“At a time when millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir — a sacred season of sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family reunion — it would be unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power in a manner that denies a citizen his liberty without just cause,” Atiku said.

He added that Eid should represent a period of mercy, reconciliation, and humanity, insisting that El-Rufai should be allowed to reunite with his family while legal proceedings continue transparently.

Atiku further warned against what he described as selective justice and political intimidation, arguing that democratic systems must be judged by how fairly they treat both supporters and critics of government.

“Democracy does not grant the government the licence to punish dissent, settle political scores, or deploy coercive institutions as instruments of intimidation,” he stated.

The statement comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving El-Rufai, who is currently facing corruption and money laundering charges before a Federal High Court in Kaduna. The case was filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and includes allegations relating to the conversion and possession of proceeds linked to corruption, as well as violations of Nigeria’s Money Laundering Act.

El-Rufai and his co-defendant, Joel Adoga, have both pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Last week, the Federal High Court in Kaduna reportedly granted El-Rufai access to medical treatment while in custody following a request by his legal team during court proceedings before Justice Rilwan Aikawa.

The development has generated significant political debate across Nigeria, especially given El-Rufai’s influence within northern politics and his evolving relationship with key political actors ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political analysts say Atiku’s public intervention reflects growing concerns among opposition figures over the handling of politically sensitive investigations and the broader state of democratic accountability in the country.

Observers also note that the situation could further intensify political tensions as Nigeria gradually moves closer to another election cycle marked by shifting alliances, legal battles, and growing competition among major political blocs.