Supporters of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, have taken their campaign against his continued detention beyond Nigeria’s borders, engaging a United States-based advocacy organisation to raise concerns before policymakers and democratic institutions in Washington.
The El-Rufai Support Group Association (ERSGA) announced on Wednesday that it had retained Vanguard Africa, an international advocacy firm based in Washington, DC, to spearhead efforts aimed at drawing attention to what it described as growing concerns over the rule of law and due process in Nigeria.
The group said the move was intended to spotlight what it considers the unfair treatment and prolonged detention of the former governor by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
According to information contained in a filing with the US Department of State, Vanguard Africa will engage officials within the US administration, members of Congress, federal agencies, pro-democracy organisations and other international stakeholders on behalf of ERSGA.
Speaking for the association, Mohammed Salihu said the case extends beyond El-Rufai as an individual, arguing that it reflects broader challenges facing Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“The treatment of Governor El-Rufai is not an isolated incident; it points to a deeper crisis affecting democratic governance and the administration of justice,” Salihu said.
He added that the group was taking its concerns to Washington because it believes the international community has a role to play in speaking out when legal processes are allegedly used for political purposes.
ERSGA also expressed concern over repeated delays in court proceedings and bail hearings, saying such developments have raised questions about judicial independence and the integrity of the legal system.
The association argued that the matter has significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum. It warned that any perception of using state institutions to target opposition figures could weaken public trust in democratic processes.
Vanguard Africa has previously worked on advocacy campaigns involving several African political figures, including Gambian President Adama Barrow, former Nigerien leader Mohamed Bazoum and Ugandan opposition politician Bobi Wine.
The ICPC has yet to publicly respond to the latest international lobbying effort by El-Rufai’s supporters.
The development is expected to intensify both domestic and international scrutiny of Nigeria’s commitment to judicial independence, due process and democratic governance as political tensions continue to build ahead of the 2027 elections.
About the Author
