ADC Accuses Tinubu Government of Detaining Nasir El-Rufai

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian federal government of deliberately detaining former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to weaken the political opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi stated that the government is utilizing impossible bail conditions for bailable offenses to ensure El-Rufai remains a political prisoner until after the polls.

El-Rufai is currently facing charges of financial misconduct brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and a wire-tapping case filed by the Department of State Services. The ADC expressed grave concern over the former governor's deteriorating health, noting a need for medical observation at the National Hospital, and warned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be held personally responsible for any tragedy occurring during detention.

ADC chieftain Mohammed Barde further alleged that the presidency is acting out of fear of El-Rufai's political influence. Barde described the legal challenges as political persecution, asserting that the ruling party views the former governor as an enigma and a threat despite his previous role in the political emergence of President Tinubu.