Atiku Abubakar has called on federal authorities and the Kaduna State Government to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
He described El-Rufai’s continued detention as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling,” warning that it raises serious concerns about civil liberties, democratic norms, and respect for the rule of law.
In his statement, issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku cautioned against what he called the use of state power to intimidate political opponents.
The statement stressed that keeping El-Rufai away from his family during the festive period was unacceptable, especially in a situation where due process had not been clearly demonstrated.
“At a time when millions of Muslims across Nigeria and around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir — a sacred season of sacrifice, compassion, forgiveness, and family reunion — it would be unconscionable for any government to weaponise state power in a manner that denies a citizen his liberty without just cause, particularly in circumstances that raise legitimate concerns about political persecution.
“Eid is a time for mercy, reconciliation, and humanity. There is absolutely no justification for keeping a man away from his family during such a solemn and spiritually significant occasion, especially where due process has not been clearly demonstrated.
“I therefore call for the immediate release of Mallam El-Rufai and urge all relevant authorities to rise above political bitterness and act in the interest of justice, peace, and national cohesion.”
