LPCF alleges political persecution, demands release
Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) yesterday urged former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, to stop what it described as diversionary tactics and to face ongoing investigations by anti-graft and security agencies.

The DWI expressed concern over el-Rufai’s admission that he breached the communication lines of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), describing the action as a violation of established national security protocols.

In a statement by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr Tunji Bamidele, the group said that el-Rufai was currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) over serious allegations.

“As he faces serious investigations by multiple anti-graft and security agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS), el-Rufai’s attempts to divert attention from these grave allegations are not only disingenuous but also pose a significant threat to our national security.

“el-Rufai has openly admitted to breaching the communication lines of the National Security Adviser (NSA), a move that raises serious concerns about his respect for established protocols and the sanctity of our national security apparatus.

“His actions cannot be dismissed as mere political manoeuvring; they represent a blatant disregard for the laws and principles that govern our nation. The Democracy Watch Initiative views this breach as a critical threat to our collective safety and a violation of the trust placed in our leaders,” he said.

Bamidele recalled that in a recent statement, el-Rufai attempted to justify his actions by claiming that he sought clarification from the NSA regarding reports of the importation of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic substance. While we acknowledge the importance of transparency and accountability, his approach raises more questions than it answers.

The group, therefore, urged the relevant authorities to expedite investigations and ensure due process without interference, stressing that the rule of law remains the foundation of democracy.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party Candidates Forum (LPCF) has declared solidarity with el-Rufai, describing his arrest as politically motivated and aimed at silencing opposition voices in Nigeria.

The LPCF, therefore, urged Nigerians not to interpret the matter along ethnic or religious lines, insisting that it should instead be seen as an attempt to intimidate opposition voices in the country.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Okeme Adejoh, and Secretary, Eze Oko Splendour, the Forum accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state institutions to intimidate critics of the administration.

It further alleged selective justice, claiming that some members of the APC accused of more serious offences have not faced similar treatment.