Leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna has expressed concern over the alleged persecution and harassment of former Governor Nasir el-Rufai and opposition figures, saying the actions are politically motivated by the Federal Government.

The ADC leaders spoke at a press conference in Kaduna yesterday, as they accused the government of orchestrating a sustained campaign of persecution and harassment against opposition figures.

The party warned that continued actions against opposition leaders could undermine democracy and erode public trust in governance.

It, therefore, called on civil society groups and the international community to closely monitor developments in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.

An ADC chieftain, Prof. Sani Bello, who read the text of the press conference, said recent developments point to “a troubling pattern of abuse of state institutions, disregard for due process, and erosion of democratic norms.”

The party claimed that actions taken against el-Rufai, who is a prominent opposition figure, were politically motivated and aimed at undermining his reputation and influence in the country.

It also alleged the misuse of key federal agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to Bello, these agencies have continued to pursue actions against el-Rufai and his associates despite allegedly failing to produce “credible evidence” against him.