UAD Demands El-Rufai’s Release, Raises Concerns Over Detention

The United Action for Democracy (UAD) has called for the immediate release of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, urging the Federal Government and relevant authorities to uphold constitutional safeguards and the rule of law in handling his case.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, the coalition alleged that El-Rufai’s continued detention was unjustified and called on the authorities to disclose the legal basis for keeping him in custody.

In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Kunle Wizeman Ajayi, UAD expressed concern over reports regarding El-Rufai’s health while in detention and urged the authorities to ensure that he has access to adequate medical care.

The group also expressed concern over reports of the alleged arrest and detention of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), calling for his release if there are no lawful grounds for his continued detention.

While acknowledging that allegations of corruption and other offences should be investigated, UAD maintained that prosecutions must be conducted within the provisions of the Constitution and in accordance with the rule of law.

According to the coalition, every Nigerian, irrespective of political affiliation or status, is entitled to personal liberty, fair hearing, legal representation and due process as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The group called on the Federal Government, security agencies and prosecuting authorities to ensure transparency in all investigations and prosecutions involving public officials, warning against actions that could create the impression of political persecution or selective justice.

UAD also appealed to civil society organisations, professional bodies, the media and other stakeholders to continue demanding accountability and respect for democratic principles, insisting that the rights of all persons in detention must be protected in line with the Constitution.

The Federal Government and the agencies mentioned in the statement had not responded to the allegations contained in the press conference as of the time of filing this report.