Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on authorities to release former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai before the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, describing his continued detention as unfair and politically troubling.
In a statement issued on Friday through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said keeping El-Rufai in custody during a major religious celebration raises concerns about justice, fairness, and respect for democratic values.
According to the former vice president, Eid-el-Kabir is a period associated with compassion, reconciliation, and family unity. He argued that denying El-Rufai the opportunity to celebrate with his family without clear justification sends the wrong message to Nigerians.
Atiku stated that democracy should protect the rights of every citizen, including political opponents. He warned against the use of government institutions to intimidate or silence perceived rivals.
The former presidential candidate also stressed that El-Rufai deserves constitutional rights, including liberty, dignity, and fair treatment under the law.
“At moments like this, leaders must place justice, peace, and national unity above political disagreements,” Atiku said in the statement.
He further urged both the Federal Government and Kaduna State authorities to ensure transparency in the legal process if the former governor is facing prosecution.
El-Rufai is currently facing allegations linked to money laundering and corruption-related offences before a Federal High Court in Kaduna. He and his co-defendant have both denied the allegations brought against them.
The court recently granted the former governor access to medical treatment while in custody as proceedings continue.
Political observers say the latest comments from Atiku could increase public debate over the handling of high-profile political cases ahead of the 2027 general elections.
