- He called on the authorities to clearly identify the agency responsible for the former governor’s custody
- According to him, a lack of transparency in detention matters only heightens public suspicion
- He cautioned that anti-corruption efforts must not be perceived as tools for political persecution
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged the Federal Government to clarify the circumstances surrounding the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following reports of health concerns and limited access to his family and legal team.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Eko Hot Blog gathered that Atiku said the development has generated anxiety among El-Rufai’s relatives and associates.
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He called on the authorities to clearly identify the agency responsible for the former governor’s custody, whether it is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, the State Security Service, or any other security body.
According to him, a lack of transparency in detention matters only heightens public suspicion.
He stressed that whichever institution is in charge has a constitutional obligation to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, protect his dignity, and grant him access to medical attention, family members, and legal representatives.
The remarks followed claims by Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai’s media aide, that the former governor experienced a nosebleed while in custody.
Adekeye said El-Rufai was questioned and later granted administrative bail but remained detained as his lawyers sought a review of the bail terms.
He further alleged that the family and legal team were not presented with any court order authorising detention beyond 48 hours without formal charges and had difficulty gaining access to him.
Adekeye also claimed that one of El-Rufai’s wives was prevented from personally handing over his meal, and that he suffered an episode of bleeding overnight. He added that on February 18, El-Rufai was reportedly moved from EFCC custody to the ICPC without prior notice.
Responding to the situation, Atiku maintained that if the authorities are unable to safeguard El-Rufai’s health and fundamental rights, he should be released on bail promptly.
He cautioned that anti-corruption efforts must not be perceived as tools for political persecution, emphasising that justice should be transparent and impartial.
He also warned that actions viewed as selective enforcement could create doubts about the government’s motives.
Atiku concluded that the unclear conditions surrounding El-Rufai’s continued detention raise serious concerns and that the government would be held responsible for any adverse outcome.
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