ADC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Harassment Of El-Rufai

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

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The party made the allegation in a statement issued on Tuesday in Kaduna by Prof. Sani Bello, warning that the development threatens democratic norms and due process.

In the statement, the ADC condemned what it termed “politically motivated actions” against El-Rufai and his associates, alleging a pattern of targeted moves aimed at undermining the former governor’s political influence.

The party cited developments including what it described as a “ministerial snub” and proceedings by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which it claimed were predetermined and lacked merit.

According to the party, these actions were part of a broader effort to weaken opposition voices in the state.

The ADC also referenced the arrest and detention of some of El-Rufai’s associates, including Bashir Saidu, Ja’afar Ibrahim Sani, and Jimmy Lawal, describing the actions as intimidation of political opponents.

The party further accused anti-corruption and security agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) of allegedly being used to harass opposition figures.

According to the statement, there were also concerns about attempts to secure El-Rufai’s arrest through what it described as questionable court processes.

The party claimed that the situation involved violations of El-Rufai’s fundamental human rights, including alleged arbitrary detention and repeated transfers between Abuja and Kaduna.

It also criticised what it described as inconsistent bail conditions and detention circumstances, which it alleged were inhumane.

Beyond El-Rufai, the ADC alleged that the political activities of opposition parties in Kaduna State were being curtailed through arrests, intimidation, and interference in party structures.

The party claimed that parallel leadership factions were being created and internal crises were being instigated to weaken opposition platforms.

The ADC also expressed concern about governance in Kaduna State, pointing to challenges such as rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and unresolved farmer-herder conflicts.

The party called for an end to what it described as the harassment of opposition figures and urged authorities to respect the rule of law.

It also demanded 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 further called on 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 as a whole.