ADC alleges persecution of El-Rufai, demands end to harassment

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Kaduna State chapter of the African Democratic Congress has raised alarm over what it described as sustained persecution and harassment of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and other opposition figures.

In a statement issued Tuesday in Kaduna by Professor Sani Bello, the party condemned what it termed “politically motivated actions” against El-Rufai and his associates, warning that such developments threaten democratic norms and due process.

The party alleged a pattern of targeted actions aimed at undermining El-Rufai’s political standing, including what it described as a “ministerial snub” and proceedings by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which it claimed were predetermined and lacking merit.

It further cited the arrest and detention of some of El-Rufai’s associates, including Bashir Saidu, Ja’afar Ibrahim Sani, and Jimmy Lawal, describing the moves as part of a broader strategy to intimidate opposition voices.

The ADC also accused anti-corruption and security agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Department of State Services of being used to harass political opponents.

According to the statement, there were concerns over alleged attempts to secure El-Rufai’s arrest through questionable court processes, as well as claims of prolonged detention under conditions it described as inhumane.

The party further alleged violations of El-Rufai’s fundamental human rights, including arbitrary detention, frequent transfers between Abuja and Kaduna, and what it called inconsistent bail conditions.

Beyond El-Rufai, the ADC claimed that opposition activities in Kaduna State were being suppressed through arrests, intimidation, and alleged political interference within party structures, including the creation of parallel leadership factions and instigation of internal crises.

The party also expressed concern over governance in the state, citing rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and unresolved farmer-herder conflicts, among other challenges.

It called for the immediate cessation of what it termed harassment of opposition figures, respect for the rule of law, and the release of individuals allegedly detained unlawfully or their prosecution through transparent legal processes.

“The current trajectory threatens core democratic principles and risks undermining public confidence in governance and institutions,” the statement said.

The ADC urged relevant authorities, civil society organisations, and the international community to take note of the situation and act to safeguard democracy and justice in Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.