Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on federal authorities and the Kaduna State Government to immediately release former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing his continued detention as “cruel, unjustifiable, and deeply troubling,” particularly as Muslims across Nigeria prepare for Eid Kabir celebrations.

Atiku said the development represents a disturbing affront to civil liberties, democratic norms, and the rule of law, warning that it raises serious concerns about the alleged use of state power to intimidate political opponents.

The position was contained in a statement issued by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, who described El-Rufai’s continued detention as “deeply troubling, politically provocative, and inconsistent with the principles of justice, democracy, and basic human decency.”

He argued that at a time of spiritual reflection and sacrifice, it is unacceptable for any government to deny a citizen liberty without clear and justifiable cause.

“Mallam El-Rufai, regardless of political differences, remains a Nigerian citizen entitled to full constitutional protections, including dignity, liberty, and due process,” the statement said.
It further stressed that democracy does not permit the weaponisation of state institutions to punish dissent or settle political scores.

“The Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities must understand that selective justice is injustice. The credibility of any democracy is measured not by how it treats loyalists, but by how it treats perceived opponents,” it added.

The statement urged authorities to provide full transparency regarding the legal basis of El-Rufai’s detention, insisting that failure to do so risks deepening public concern over shrinking democratic space.

“If Mallam El-Rufai is being held under a legitimate legal process, the authorities owe Nigerians full disclosure. If not, his continued detention only reinforces fears of rising intolerance and authoritarian excess,” it warned.

Atiku further appealed for El-Rufai’s immediate release ahead of Eid Kabir, describing the period as one of mercy, forgiveness, and family reunion, and insisting there is no justification for prolonged detention without due process.

He concluded by urging all relevant authorities to act in the interest of justice, peace, and national cohesion.