ADC Alleges Political Motivation Behind El-Rufai’s Continued Detention

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to strategically weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election.

During a recent interview, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi asserted that while his party supports the legal prosecution of individuals with legitimate cases, the handling of El-Rufai’s detention suggests a clear political agenda. Abdullahi argued that the imposition of stringent, “almost impossible” bail conditions for bailable offenses is a deliberate tactic by the government to keep the former governor in custody indefinitely.

“The thinking within the ADC is that the APC government has concluded that they will not release Malam Nasir El-Rufai until after the elections,” Abdullahi stated. He further alleged that the ruling party fears the influence El-Rufai would wield if released, claiming that his freedom would significantly strengthen an opposition coalition.

Context of El-Rufai’s Legal Situation

Nasir El-Rufai is currently in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) facing charges of financial misconduct related to his tenure as governor. His legal proceedings have recently been marked by controversy.  

Following a court-approved medical visit to the National Hospital in Abuja on July 7, 2026, the ICPC accused El-Rufai and his physician, Professor Bello Abubakar, of abusing medical privileges and violating court orders, leading to the arrest of the doctor. El-Rufai’s media team has vehemently denied these allegations, describing the ICPC’s account as inaccurate and asserting that the medical consultation was within the defendant’s rights and predated the notification of a scheduled court sitting in Kaduna.  

The ADC spokesperson expressed grave concern regarding the former governor’s health, citing reports that his condition had deteriorated while in detention. Abdullahi warned that the government would be held personally responsible should anything happen to him, characterizing El-Rufai as a “political prisoner”.