Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has raised alarm over the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to provide clarity on the circumstances of his custody and to grant him bail if his safety cannot be guaranteed.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, Atiku emphasized the need for transparency, saying, “The health and welfare of @elrufai is a matter of grave concern to his family, friends, and associates.” He demanded that the Federal Government disclose which agency is holding the former governor—be it the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the State Security Service (SSS), or any other arm of the security establishment.
“Secrecy in matters of detention only fuels suspicion. Nigerians deserve transparency,” he added. Atiku warned that any agency responsible has a constitutional duty to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, dignity, access to medical care, and legal representation.
He expressed concern over reports suggesting that El-Rufai suffered a health episode while being denied access to family members, describing such developments as “deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democracy.” Atiku stressed that if authorities cannot guarantee his fundamental rights, he should be released on bail immediately. “If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable,” he warned.
The former Vice President also raised concerns about selective prosecution, highlighting a perception that opposition figures are disproportionately targeted while others enjoy protection. “Anti-corruption must not become a political weapon,” he stated, adding that continued detention under unclear circumstances undermines the credibility of anti-graft efforts.
El-Rufai has been held since voluntarily reporting to the EFCC on February 16, 2026, and was later transferred to ICPC custody on February 18. His legal team says no court order has been presented to justify his continued detention beyond the constitutionally permitted 48-hour period without charge. An application for bail submitted to ICPC on February 19 has reportedly not been responded to.
Legal observers note that the situation has intensified scrutiny of Nigeria’s anti-graft agencies and their compliance with constitutional safeguards, particularly in cases involving politically exposed persons. At least two court matters involving El-Rufai, including a fundamental rights enforcement suit seeking bail, are scheduled for hearing this week at the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
Chronicles Reporters will continue monitoring developments in this high-profile detention case.