News, Politics

Atiku Alleges Political Motive in El-Rufai’s Arrest, Demands Due Process

Published by Samuel Ayomide on April 2nd, 2026.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has weighed in on the legal troubles surrounding former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing his detention and prosecution as politically driven.

Reacting through his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku argued that recent developments surrounding El-Rufai’s brief release and subsequent re-arrest raise serious questions about the intent behind the legal actions. According to Daily Trust, the former vice president suggested that the sequence of events points to more than routine judicial procedure.

El-Rufai, who is currently facing corruption-related charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), had his case adjourned by a Federal High Court in Kaduna until mid-April for the hearing of his bail application. However, shortly after the court session, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly took him into custody , a move that has since sparked political debate.

Atiku’s camp insists that the manner of his release and re-detention undermines the credibility of the process. As highlighted by Channels Television in its coverage of the incident, concerns have been raised over whether due legal procedures were followed in handling the former governor’s case.

In a strongly worded statement, Atiku maintained that the temporary release of El-Rufai only reinforced earlier claims that the prosecution may not be entirely free from political influence. He further argued that any action taken without clear court approval risks eroding public trust in the justice system.

Beyond the immediate case, the former PDP presidential candidate emphasised the broader implications for Nigeria’s democracy, noting that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, has the right to fair treatment under the law.

Observers say the controversy has added another layer to Nigeria’s already tense political climate, with Arise Newsreporting that the case is being closely watched as a potential test of judicial independence and political neutrality ahead of the 2027 elections.

While authorities have yet to officially respond to the allegations of political interference, Atiku called for transparency and adherence to due process, insisting that justice must not only be done but be clearly seen to be done.