Coalition faults Atiku over comments on El-Rufai’s detention

By Abubakar Yunusa

A civil society group, Kaduna Voices United, on Tuesday criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his comments on the detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

The coalition said while concerns about El-Rufai’s health and welfare were legitimate, the ongoing legal processes against him should not be overshadowed by political advocacy.

Atiku had reportedly warned that the Federal Government should be held responsible if anything untoward happens to the former governor following reports that he suffered a nosebleed in detention. He also described the situation as troubling and called for transparency over the agency handling the matter.

But in a statement signed by its Chairman, Yariok Makama Goje, the group said public discourse must remain focused on accountability and due process.

The coalition noted that the Department of State Services had filed charges against El-Rufai at the Federal High Court in Abuja. It added that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission were also investigating issues linked to his tenure.

According to the group, the matters before the courts and anti-graft agencies require thorough legal examination. It maintained that the rule of law must be allowed to take its course without interference.

Goje said, “In a democracy, accountability is crucial. Public officials must be held to the highest standards of conduct to ensure they serve the interests of the people.”

The coalition stressed that calls for transparency in detention procedures were valid but should be applied consistently, irrespective of political affiliations.

It urged political leaders to avoid what it described as selective outrage and instead promote fairness, justice and institutional integrity.

The group also called on the Federal Government to ensure due process in handling the case and to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the detention.

It reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, insisting that strengthening the rule of law remains central to Nigeria’s democratic development.