The African Democratic Congress (ADC) claims that the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, is a calculated political move. The party suggests the aim is to obstruct his involvement in the 2027 general elections. During a recent interview, ADC national publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, cautioned President Bola Tinubu that he would bear personal responsibility should any harm befall the former governor while in state custody.
Currently, el-Rufai is facing a five-count charge from the Department of State Services regarding the alleged interception of calls involving National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. Additionally, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission is pursuing a separate nine-count case against him. A request for bail was recently rejected by the court.
Abdullahi rejected the notion that these proceedings are purely criminal, arguing instead that the government intends to neutralize a political threat. He noted that el-Rufai played a key role in securing northern support for President Tinubu during the 2023 election cycle. Highlighting the shift in their relationship, the ADC spokesperson urged the administration to either grant bail or risk facing future scrutiny, emphasizing that the President must be held accountable for the former governor’s well-being.
