By Abuja, Nigeria
The coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has demanded the immediate release of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, or his prompt arraignment before a court of competent jurisdiction.
In a statement on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said there should be no middle ground, insisting that due process must be followed in line with the Constitution.
The ADC raised concerns over what it described as the erosion of democratic principles under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that such actions could undermine public confidence in governance and the rule of law. The party questioned the implications for human rights if such practices continue, particularly under a government that may seek another mandate from Nigerians.
Describing the situation as “a stain on the conscience of the nation’s democracy,” the ADC accused the government of drifting toward lawlessness. It stressed that freedom is a constitutional right and not a privilege, subject to executive discretion. The party further challenged President Tinubu to demonstrate his commitment to democratic ideals through concrete actions, rather than rhetoric.
The ADC also called on key state actors, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), to ensure full compliance with constitutional provisions.
It described as ironic what it termed “a shift from the President’s pro-democracy credentials“, recalling his association with pro-democracy struggles during the era of military rule, and warning that any deviation from constitutional governance could signal a broader threat to Nigeria’s democratic system.
