Atiku Blasts Tinubu’s Govt Over El-Rufai’s Continued Detention, Demands Release

‎Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
‎
‎In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described El-Rufai’s continued detention as cruel, unjustifiable and disturbing, especially as Muslims across the country prepare for the Eid al-Kabir celebration.
‎
‎He said the development represents a worrying attack on civil liberties, democratic values and the rule of law, while also raising concerns about the use of state institutions to target perceived  political opponents.Politics
‎
‎According to Atiku, the treatment of El-Rufai under the current administration is politically provocative and inconsistent with the principles of justice, democracy and fairness.
‎
‎“At a time when millions of Muslims in Nigeria and around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Kabir, a season associated with sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness and family unity, it is unacceptable for any government to deny a citizen his freedom without just cause, particularly under circumstances that suggest political persecution,” the statement read.
‎
‎He added that regardless of political disagreements or alliances, El-Rufai remains a Nigerian citizen entitled to constitutional rights, including dignity, liberty and due process.Nigerian Culture Guides
‎
‎Atiku further warned that selective justice undermines democracy, stressing that the strength of any democratic system is measured by how it treats perceived opponents, not loyal supporters.
‎
‎Recall that El-Rufai is currently in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC). Although he applied for bail after being arraigned, the anti-graft agency opposed the request in court.