Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Federal Government to disclose the whereabouts and health condition of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, following reports of his detention.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Atiku expressed concern over El-Rufai’s welfare, saying his health and safety have become matters of serious anxiety for family members, friends, and associates.
He urged the government to clarify which agency is responsible for the detention — whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Department of State Services (DSS), or any other security outfit.
“The Federal Government owes Nigerians clarity. It must state clearly which agency is holding him,” Atiku said, warning that secrecy surrounding detentions fuels suspicion and erodes public trust.
He stressed that whichever agency is involved has a constitutional obligation to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, preserve his dignity, and grant him access to medical care, family members, and legal representatives.
The former vice president described as “deeply troubling” reports that El-Rufai allegedly suffered a nosebleed in custody while family members were denied access to him, stating that such developments are unacceptable in a democratic society.
Atiku added that if authorities are unable to guarantee El-Rufai’s health and fundamental rights, he should be granted bail without delay. He cautioned that the government would be held accountable should any harm come to the former governor.
Beyond the immediate concerns, Atiku warned against what he termed a growing perception of selective prosecution, alleging that opposition figures are being aggressively targeted while others are shielded from scrutiny.
“Anti-corruption must not become a political weapon,” he said, insisting that accountability efforts must be transparent, even-handed, and free from political bias.
He maintained that justice must be applied without fear or favour, stressing that the rule of law must prevail in all circumstances.
