Charge Or Release El-Rufai Now – Coalition Tells FG

Charge Or Release El-Rufai Now – Coalition Tells FG
Group warns continued detention violates Nigerian Constitution and international laws.
COPAC urges opposition leaders to resist alleged harassment of political figures.

The Coalition Political Action Committee has called on the Federal Government to either file formal charges against former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, or release him immediately.

The group warned that any continued detention beyond the legally permitted period would violate the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights laws.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the coalition made the demand in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by its convener, Aminu Datti-Ahmed. According to him, the rule of law must not be compromised for political convenience.

El-Rufai reportedly responded voluntarily to an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16. He remained in custody until the night of February 18 before he was transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for further investigation over alleged financial misconduct and related offences.

The coalition said the former governor has remained in detention since then.

COPAC stated that investigative detention is meant to be temporary and must either lead to formal charges before a competent court or result in the suspect’s release within a reasonable period.

“The 14 day remand order obtained in the case involving Nasir El-Rufai has expired. That order was granted for a specific and limited purpose to allow investigators to complete their work within a defined constitutional window. It was not a licence for indefinite detention, procedural manipulation, or political theatre,” the group said.

The coalition cited Section 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the liberty of every citizen. It warned that any action outside constitutional provisions would be unlawful and could amount to abuse of state power.

COPAC also expressed concern over what it described as a growing pattern where investigative powers are allegedly used selectively against political figures.

The group referenced international human rights laws, including Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, both of which prohibit arbitrary arrest and detention.

The coalition further urged opposition leaders including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Aminu Tambuwal, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso to speak against what it described as harassment of opposition figures.

“This is not about El-Rufai. It is about ensuring the law applies equally to all. The Constitution is not optional, and the rule of law must never become a selective weapon,” the coalition said.

Charge Or Release El-Rufai Now – Coalition Tells FG

COPAC concluded by urging the Federal Government to either press charges if there is evidence or immediately release El-Rufai, stressing that Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law.