UAD Calls For Review Of El-Rufai’s Continued Detention

The United Action for Democracy (UAD), a coalition committed to democracy, human rights, constitutional governance and the rule of law, has expressed concern over the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, calling on relevant authorities to review the circumstances surrounding his detention and ensure that due process is followed. The group made this call on Saturday during a press conference addressed by the General Secretary of the United Action for Democracy (UAD), Comrade Kunle Wizeman Ajayi in Abule Egba, Lagos, where it also raised concerns about the conditions of El-Rufai’s detention and reports concerning his access to medical care. UAD expressed concern over reports regarding the alleged arrest and detention of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The coalition urged the relevant authorities to provide clear information on the legal basis for the continued detention of El-Rufai and ensure that all proceedings involving him are conducted transparently and in accordance with the law. According to the group, investigations and prosecution of alleged offences should be carried out within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law. It noted that while no individual is above the law, every person is entitled to constitutional protections, including the right to personal liberty, dignity, fair hearing and due process. UAD therefore called for the release of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai if there is no lawful basis for his continued detention and immediate access to qualified medical personnel and appropriate healthcare for El-Rufai, with his health and well-being given adequate attention. They also called for strict adherence to constitutional safeguards, including the rights to fair hearing, legal representation, bail where applicable and due process. The group called for the release of Professor Bello Abubakar “if his continued detention is not supported by a valid legal basis or court order.” “There should be greater transparency in the handling of cases involving public officials and other individuals facing criminal investigations or prosecution. “We demand accountability and equal application of the law, irrespective of political affiliation or status,” they said. The coalition said that the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic institutions depends on their independence, impartiality, professionalism and adherence to the rule of law. It added that the fight against corruption and other forms of crime should be pursued without compromising constitutional rights and legal safeguards. UAD further called on the Federal Government, security agencies, prosecuting authorities and other relevant institutions to ensure that the rights and dignity of all persons in detention are protected. The coalition also urged civil society organisations, professional bodies, the media and Nigerians to remain engaged in promoting accountability, transparency and respect for democratic principles. Speaking during the question-and-answer session, the General Secretary of UAD, Kunle Wizeman Ajayi, said that the coalition’s concerns extended beyond the case involving El-Rufai. He said that the group was concerned about cases where accused persons remained in custody because they were unable to meet bail conditions imposed by the courts. According to him, “If there is a legal basis for him to be kept in detention, it should be clear. The essence of bail is for an accused person to enjoy his freedom while the matter is still before the court. If the bail conditions are stringent, it could make it difficult for the person to secure release.” Ajayi described the El-Rufai case as part of a broader conversation about access to justice and the administration of bail in Nigeria. He said, “Our position is about addressing issues of injustice and ensuring that due process is followed. We also made reference to concerns raised about the medical personnel connected to Mallam El-Rufai and those associated with other high-profile cases.” He urged the judiciary to ensure that bail conditions are reasonable and do not unnecessarily prevent eligible accused persons from securing their release. Ajayi also said UAD would continue to engage in advocacy and other lawful activities aimed at promoting justice, accountability and respect for fundamental rights. Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and two-term Governor of Kaduna State, is currently facing legal proceedings. UAD said it believed that political differences or allegations of wrongdoing should not affect an individual’s entitlement to constitutional protections and a fair hearing. The coalition called on all relevant authorities to ensure that the legal process is conducted fairly, transparently and in accordance with the law.