Atiku Calls for El-Rufai’s Release Ahead of Eid-el-Kabir Celebrations

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

By Folarin Aluko

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 unjust and politically troubling.

In a statement released through his media aide, Atiku argued that detaining El-Rufai during one of Islam’s most significant religious celebrations raises concerns about fairness, civil liberties, and the protection of democratic rights in Nigeria.

The former vice president stated that Eid-el-Kabir is traditionally a period associated with sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family unity, insisting that no citizen should be denied those moments without clear legal justification and transparent due process.

Atiku also warned against what he described as the use of state institutions to intimidate or target perceived political opponents, stressing that democracy should be measured by how governments treat both supporters and critics.

According to him, selective justice and politically sensitive prosecutions risk damaging public confidence in democratic institutions and the rule of law.

El-Rufai is currently facing corruption and money laundering charges before a Federal High Court in Kaduna over allegations linked to financial misconduct during his time in office. The former governor and his co-defendant have both pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them.

The case has continued to attract national attention due to El-Rufai’s influence within northern politics and his evolving political relationship with major figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

Last week, the court reportedly granted the former governor access to medical treatment while in custody following an application filed by his legal team.

Political observers say Atiku’s intervention reflects wider concerns among opposition figures regarding the handling of politically sensitive cases and the broader state of democratic accountability in the country.

The development also comes at a time when political realignments and strategic positioning are intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major political actors increasingly engaging in public disagreements, alliances, and legal battles.

Analysts believe the controversy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention could further deepen political tensions within opposition circles while generating fresh debate about governance, judicial independence, and political power in Nigeria.

As Eid-el-Kabir approaches, attention remains focused on whether authorities will respond to calls for El-Rufai’s release or allow legal proceedings to continue uninterrupted.