Yemi Obafemi
A human rights organisation, the Democracy and Rights Observatory (DRO), has called for the immediate release of former Kaduna State governor Nasir Ahmad El‑Rufai or his prompt arraignment in court, raising concerns over what it described as prolonged detention and possible violations of due process.
In a statement issued by the group, DRO urged the Nigerian government to ensure that El-Rufai is presented before a competent court and that all investigations into the allegations against him comply with constitutional and judicial procedures.
According to the organisation, El-Rufai was initially detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, 2026, after responding to an invitation regarding corruption allegations. Although he was later granted bail, the group said he was subsequently taken into custody by other federal agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), where he remains under investigation.
The group also cited proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where El-Rufai’s arraignment was adjourned to April 23 after the Department of State Services (DSS) failed to produce him in court. Prosecutors reportedly told the court that he remained in ICPC custody over separate allegations of financial misappropriation.
El-Rufai is also facing charges under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act and the Nigerian Communications Act in connection with comments allegedly made during a February 13 interview on Arise News, in which he claimed knowledge of intercepted communications involving the National Security Adviser.
DRO said the situation raises concerns about institutional coordination and respect for judicial authority.
“The apparent pattern of successive detentions by multiple agencies and the failure to produce a detained individual for scheduled court proceedings raises serious concerns about institutional coordination, respect for judicial processes, and protection against arbitrary detention,” the organisation said.
The group also expressed concern about reports suggesting possible restrictions on El-Rufai’s assets or entitlements in connection with the investigation, stating that any such measures must follow lawful judicial procedures.
“Asset control or economic restrictions must remain subject to judicial supervision and court orders, in line with established legal safeguards,” the statement said.
DRO called on international bodies, including the United Nations, African Union, European Union, as well as global rights groups such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, to monitor the case and encourage adherence to constitutional and international legal standards.
The organisation noted that transparency and due process in high-profile investigations are essential to maintaining public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
