Our Reporter, Abuja
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday called on the Federal Government to provide immediate clarification over the reported detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, expressing concern over his health and fundamental rights.
In a statement, Atiku described el-Rufai’s health and welfare as “a matter of grave concern” to his family, friends and associates, insisting that Nigerians are entitled to know the exact circumstances of his detention.
He urged the government to clearly state which agency is holding the former governor, whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, the State Security Service, or any other security body.
“Secrecy in matters of detention only fuels suspicion. Nigerians deserve transparency,” he said.
The former vice president stressed that whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional duty to guarantee el-Rufai’s safety, dignity, access to medical care, and access to his family and legal representatives.
He described as disturbing reports that the former governor allegedly suffered a nosebleed while family members were denied access to him, noting that such developments are unacceptable in a democratic society.
Atiku further stated that if authorities are unable to guarantee el-Rufai’s health and fundamental rights, he should be granted bail without delay. He warned that the government would be held accountable should anything untoward happen to him.
Beyond the immediate case, Atiku raised concerns about what he termed a growing perception of selective prosecution, alleging that opposition figures are being aggressively pursued while others are shielded from scrutiny.
“Anti-corruption must not become a political weapon,” he cautioned, adding that accountability measures must be even-handed and free from political bias.
He maintained that justice must be transparent and the rule of law applied without fear or favour.
