Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cautioned that the current administration will be held responsible if any harm befalls former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
Atiku’s warning followed reports that El-Rufai allegedly suffered a nosebleed while in detention, a development he described as disturbing and unacceptable in a democratic society. He stressed that the former governor’s health and well-being are of serious concern to his family and associates.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Atiku said the Federal Government must clearly state which agency is detaining El-Rufai — whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, the State Security Service, or another security body.
He argued that Nigerians deserve full transparency, noting that secrecy surrounding detention only fuels suspicion. According to him, whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional obligation to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, dignity, access to medical care, and unhindered contact with his family and legal team.
Atiku added that if authorities cannot guarantee his health and fundamental rights, he should be granted bail without delay. He also raised concerns about what he described as growing perceptions of selective prosecution, warning that anti-corruption efforts must not be used as political tools.
“The continued detention under unclear circumstances raises serious questions about motive,” he said, insisting that justice must be transparent, accountability even-handed, and the rule of law applied without fear or favour.
