The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has accused authorities of orchestrating sustained political pressure against former governor Nasir El-Rufai and other opposition figures.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, ADC chieftain and former Commissioner for Education, Muhammad Sani-Bello, expressed “grave concern” over what the party described as politically motivated actions that undermine democratic norms.
According to the ADC, recent developments involving El-Rufai are not isolated but part of a broader effort to weaken his political influence. The party cited issues including his exclusion from a ministerial position, proceedings initiated by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, and the arrest and detention of several of his associates.
Among those mentioned were Bashir Saidu, Ja’afar Ibrahim Sani, Jimi Lawal, and Aisha Galadima.
The party also alleged that key agencies, including the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), are being used in ways that suggest selective enforcement.
According to the ADC, prolonged detention, altered bail conditions, and concerns over judicial processes raise questions about institutional integrity and public trust.
The party further raised allegations of human rights violations and due process concerns, pointing to what it described as El-Rufai’s extended detention and repeated transfers between locations.
Beyond El-Rufai, the ADC claimed there is a growing crackdown on opposition voices across Kaduna State, citing reports of arrests, intimidation, and interference in party activities, including restrictions on establishing party offices.
It also referenced national-level controversies involving party leadership, including issues linked to David Mark, which it said add to concerns about institutional neutrality.
The ADC called for an immediate end to what it termed harassment and politically motivated prosecutions, as well as the release of individuals it believes are unlawfully detained. It urged authorities to uphold due process, protect institutional independence, and ensure a free and competitive democratic environment.
The party also appealed to relevant authorities, civil society organisations, and the international community to monitor developments in Kaduna State closely.
It warned that continued pressure on opposition figures could weaken democratic pluralism and erode public confidence in governance if not addressed.
What you should know
The ADC has accused authorities in Kaduna State of targeting Nasir El-Rufai and other opposition figures through arrests, legal actions, and institutional pressure.
The party claims these actions threaten democratic principles and due process, while urging oversight and intervention.
The situation reflects rising political tension in the state, raising concerns about fairness, institutional independence, and the protection of opposition voices in Nigeria’s democracy.
