Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged the Federal Government to publicly explain the circumstances surrounding the detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, citing concerns about his health and access to family members and legal counsel.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Atiku described the situation as troubling and said the government must provide Nigerians with clear information on which security agency is responsible for holding the former governor.
“The Federal Government owes Nigerians clarity on this matter. It should state plainly which agency is in custody of him and under what legal authority,” he said.
The former vice-president warned that uncertainty surrounding detention processes could erode public trust and fuel suspicion.
“Secrecy in detention only deepens anxiety. Any agency involved has a constitutional duty to protect his safety, dignity, access to medical attention, and contact with his family and lawyers,” Atiku added.
His reaction followed claims by El-Rufai’s media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, that the former governor experienced a nosebleed while in custody and that his legal team had faced challenges gaining access to him.
According to the aide, El-Rufai was initially questioned and granted administrative bail but remained in custody as his lawyers sought a review of the bail terms.
He also alleged that the family had not been shown any court order authorising detention beyond the constitutional time limit.
Adekeye further claimed that the former governor was moved between agencies without prior notice and that his relatives had difficulties delivering food directly to him.
Responding to the reports, Atiku said authorities must ensure the protection of El-Rufai’s fundamental rights and medical wellbeing.
“If the authorities cannot guarantee his health and constitutional rights, the humane and lawful option is to grant him bail without delay,” he said.
He cautioned against allowing anti-corruption efforts to be perceived as politically motivated, stressing that justice must be applied fairly to all citizens.
“Justice must be transparent and even-handed. Selective enforcement creates the impression of political bias and undermines confidence in the rule of law,” Atiku stated.
The former vice-president also warned that any deterioration in El-Rufai’s condition could trigger serious national concern.
“The continued detention under unclear circumstances raises questions about intent. If anything happens to him, the government will be held accountable,” he added.
Government authorities and the agencies mentioned have yet to issue an official response to the allegations as of press time.
