The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the continued detention of Nasir el-Rufai, describing it as a violation of his fundamental rights and a threat to democratic principles.
El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna State and ex-minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) since February 19. His detention followed an earlier release by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the detention as “illegal and unconstitutional,” alleging that efforts were being made to pressure el-Rufai to abandon his political positions.
The party demanded that the ICPC either release him immediately or arraign him before a court of competent jurisdiction. It warned that it would petition Amnesty International and other rights groups if the situation persists.
According to the ADC, detaining a citizen without formal charges or trial undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in democratic institutions. The party also raised concerns over reported restrictions on access to family members and medical care.
The statement further argued that the continued detention violates constitutional guarantees, including the right to liberty, fair hearing, and political participation.
Reiterating its position, the ADC insisted that el-Rufai must either be released without delay or formally charged in court.
