A civil society group, Kaduna Voices United, has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his recent comments on the arrest, detention, and prosecution of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, accusing him of selective concern and double standards on accountability.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Yariok Makama Goje, the coalition said Atiku’s remarks, particularly his call for the Federal Government to be held responsible should anything happen to El-Rufai in detention, ignored years of alleged abuses, financial controversies, and suppression of dissent during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023.
The group was reacting to comments attributed to Atiku, who reportedly described El-Rufai’s detention as “deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democracy,” following reports that the former governor suffered a nosebleed while in custody. Atiku had also called for clarity on the agency responsible for El-Rufai’s detention.
While acknowledging concerns over El-Rufai’s health and well-being, the coalition argued that such concerns should not overshadow the gravity of the legal issues he currently faces. According to the group, El-Rufai is being investigated and prosecuted by the Department of State Services over allegations including illegal wiretapping, failure to disclose intercepted communications, and actions deemed to threaten national security.
In addition, the coalition noted that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission are probing claims of corruption and financial impropriety linked to El-Rufai’s administration. These include allegations that as much as ₦432 billion was misappropriated through major infrastructure projects, including the Kaduna light rail scheme.
Kaduna Voices United said such allegations demand thorough legal scrutiny rather than political sympathy or attempts at reputational cleansing. The group warned that prioritising personal welfare arguments over accountability risks weakening democratic norms and reinforcing a culture of impunity.
The coalition concluded that while transparency in detention is important, it must be applied consistently. It argued that Atiku’s silence during El-Rufai’s years in power raises serious questions about credibility and commitment to equal justice under the law.
