My father’s detention shows Nigeria’s democracy far from complete – El-Rufai’s son

A member of the House of Representatives from Kaduna North and Chairman, Committee on Banking Regulations, Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, has disclosed that his father, Nasir El-Rufai’s continued detention shows that Nigeria’s democratic journey is far from complete.

Bello noted that democracy can only thrive in Nigeria when the country’s leadership is accountable.

El-Rufai has been in custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, since he was arrested at the Abuja airport earlier in the year.

The commission had arraigned him for corruption while he was governor of Kaduna State.

However, posting on X, Bello wrote: “Today, we celebrate the enduring strength of our democracy and the collective voice of the Nigerian people. Democracy thrives when leadership is accountable, citizens are empowered, and every voice is heard.

“As we commemorate this important day, we must also acknowledge that while our democracy continues to endure, the abuse of citizens’ rights remains a troubling reality.

“The true test of any democracy is not simply the conduct of elections, but its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

“The continued unlawful detention of my father, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, alongside the experiences of many other Nigerians who have faced similar violations, serves as a reminder that our democratic journey is far from complete.

“On this Democracy Day, let us recommit ourselves to building a nation where justice prevails, institutions are strengthened, and the rights of every citizen are respected and protected.”