Timi Frank Demands Fair Trial, Due Process in DSS Detention of El-Rufai

Former APC spokesman Timi Frank has called for fairness and due process in the DSS detention of former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, urging authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect his constitutional rights.

by chisom adaeze

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has urged Nigerian authorities to ensure fairness, justice and strict adherence to constitutional procedures in the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, by the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a statement issued on Friday, Frank expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s detention, insisting that regardless of political affiliations or allegations against any individual, the rule of law must remain the guiding principle in all investigations and prosecutions.

According to him, the anti-corruption campaign in Nigeria would lose public credibility if due process and fundamental human rights are ignored in the pursuit of justice. Frank stated that El-Rufai voluntarily presented himself to security authorities after returning to Nigeria from Egypt, arguing that such cooperation should be recognized and handled within the boundaries of democratic and legal standards.

“For the umpteenth time, I reiterate my support for the fight against corruption. However, fairness, justice, rule of law, and due process must never be sacrificed under any circumstance,” Frank said.

The former APC spokesman stressed that every Nigerian citizen, regardless of status or political background, is entitled to constitutional protections, including access to legal representation, fair hearing and sufficient time to prepare a defense.

He warned that any perceived abuse of state power or politically motivated handling of the case could further deepen public distrust in the country’s judicial and security institutions.

Frank also appealed to northern political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and civil society organizations to remain vigilant and actively monitor developments surrounding the case. “I pray that northern elders and youths will not sit back and watch anything untoward happen to Mallam El-Rufai,” he added.

He further called on respected national institutions, including the Nigerian Bar Association, religious leaders and human rights advocates, to speak out in defense of democratic principles and the rule of law.

According to Frank, Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when security agencies operate transparently and citizens are protected from arbitrary treatment, irrespective of political differences.

The detention of El-Rufai has continued to spark political debate across the country, especially within Northern Nigeria and among members of the ruling APC, where the former governor remains an influential figure.

El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023 and was widely known for his outspoken political views, reform-driven governance style and strong influence within the APC. Since leaving office, he has remained actively involved in national political discussions and policy debates.

Although authorities have yet to release comprehensive details regarding the reasons for his detention, the situation has intensified conversations around accountability, political power and the conduct of security agencies in high-profile investigations.

Political observers say the case could become another major test of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic norms, especially at a time when concerns over civil liberties, political tensions and institutional independence continue to shape national discourse. The DSS has not officially responded to Frank’s comments as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, supporters of El-Rufai have continued to demand transparency and clarity regarding his legal status, while critics argue that all public officials accused of wrongdoing should face lawful investigation without interference. The unfolding development is expected to remain a major topic in Nigeria’s political space as reactions continue to emerge from different stakeholders across the country.