Atiku Calls for Transparency Over El-Rufai’s Detention

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, urging the Federal Government to clarify which security agency is holding him and under what conditions.

In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday, Atiku described the situation as “deeply troubling” and called for transparency.

“The health and welfare of Nasir El-Rufai is a matter of grave concern to his family, friends, and associates. The Federal Government owes Nigerians clarity. It must state clearly which agency is holding him—whether the EFCC, ICPC, SSS, or any other security arm,” he said.

Atiku warned that secrecy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention could undermine public trust in the justice system. He stressed that the responsible agency must ensure the former governor’s safety, dignity, access to medical care, and contact with family and legal representatives.

He described reports of El-Rufai suffering a nosebleed while being denied family access as “unacceptable in a democracy,” adding that bail should be granted if authorities cannot guarantee his health and fundamental rights.

“If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable,” Atiku stated.

The former vice president also raised concerns over what he called “selective prosecution,” warning that opposition figures seem to be targeted while others avoid scrutiny.

“Anti-corruption must not become a political weapon. Justice must be transparent, accountability even-handed, and the rule of law must apply to all without fear or favour,” he concluded.