According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on May 18, 2026, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration over the treatment of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing him as a “political prisoner” and accusing the government of using state institutions to intimidate opposition figures.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made the statement public on Monday, May 18, 2026, condemning reports that El-Rufai has been denied proper medical care while in detention and that his wife was barred from bringing him food. Abdullahi argued that such actions not only violate El-Rufai’s constitutional rights but also undermine his dignity as a former public officeholder.
“The prolonged detention of Governor El-Rufai, under conditions that limit access to medical care and basic sustenance, is deeply troubling,” Abdullahi said. “It is a clear violation of fundamental rights and a stark reminder of how state power is being used to target political opponents.”
The ADC drew attention to what it described as a double standard in the enforcement of justice in Nigeria. Abdullahi noted that other high-profile individuals facing serious financial crime allegations, including former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello and former Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa, continue to enjoy freedom and remain politically active, despite the gravity of the charges against them.
“This selective approach to justice sends a dangerous message,” Abdullahi said. “It reveals that the government is willing to weaponize security and anti-corruption agencies against opposition figures while allowing allies to operate without restriction.”
The party also vowed to take action through both domestic legal avenues and international human rights channels to secure El-Rufai’s release. Abdullahi insisted that Nigeria cannot genuinely claim democratic credentials while opposition leaders face restrictions and persecution under the guise of prosecution.
“The case of Governor El-Rufai is not merely a legal matter; it reflects the systematic use of state machinery to suppress dissenting voices,” he added. “President Tinubu must be held accountable for any deterioration in his health or well-being during detention.”
In a related development, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted El-Rufai bail of ₦100 million with strict conditions. The court ordered that a senior federal civil servant serve as surety, required submission of property title documents, surrender of international passports, and verification of tax clearance records.
