The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of steering Nigeria toward authoritarian rule, citing the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai.
In a statement released Wednesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, alleged that El-Rufai has been held by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for over 30 days without formal charges or arraignment in court.
According to the ADC, El-Rufai initially honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before being released. However, he was subsequently re-arrested by the ICPC and has remained in custody since then.
The party described the development as a violation of fundamental rights and a threat to democratic principles, alleging that the former governor has been denied access to family members and medical care, and pressured to relinquish his political affiliations as a condition for release.
“This is not law enforcement but the weaponisation of state institutions,” the statement said, warning that such actions undermine constitutional guarantees, including the right to liberty, fair hearing, and political participation.
The ADC called on President Tinubu to demonstrate his commitment to the rule of law by ensuring either the immediate release of El-Rufai or his prompt arraignment before a competent court.
It also urged key government officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and relevant anti-corruption agencies, to comply with constitutional provisions.
Expanding its concerns, the party warned that the situation could have broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic future, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Today it is El-Rufai; tomorrow, it could be anyone perceived as a political threat,” the statement noted, adding that it may seek international intervention if the matter remains unresolved.
The ADC maintained that the issue transcends individual politics and reflects the state of democratic governance in Nigeria, insisting that due process must be upheld.
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