ADC Cries Out: Alleged Harassment Of El-Rufai Sparks Fresh Controversy

In a statement released on Tuesday in Kaduna and signed by Prof. Sani Bello, the party warned that such developments pose a threat to democratic principles and due process.

The ADC condemned what it called “politically motivated actions” against El-Rufai and his allies, alleging a deliberate effort to weaken his political influence. It pointed to events such as a “ministerial snub” and actions by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which it claimed were predetermined and lacked fairness.

According to the party, these actions form part of a broader attempt to silence opposition voices in the state. It also cited the arrest and detention of some of El-Rufai’s associates, including Bashir Saidu, Ja’afar Ibrahim Sani, and Jimmy Lawal, describing the developments as acts of political intimidation.

The ADC further alleged that agencies such as the ICPC, EFCC, and DSS were being used to target opposition members, and raised concerns over what it described as questionable legal efforts aimed at securing El-Rufai’s arrest.

The party also claimed that El-Rufai’s rights were being violated, citing alleged arbitrary detention and repeated transfers between Abuja and Kaduna, as well as what it described as harsh and inconsistent bail conditions.

Beyond El-Rufai, the ADC accused authorities of restricting opposition activities in Kaduna State through arrests, intimidation, and interference in internal party affairs, including the creation of parallel leadership structures to create division.

The party also raised concerns about governance in the state, pointing to issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and ongoing farmer-herder conflicts.

It called for an immediate end to the alleged harassment of opposition figures and urged authorities to uphold the rule of law. The ADC also demanded the release of individuals it claimed were being held unlawfully or that they be prosecuted through proper legal procedures.

The party warned that the current situation could undermine public trust in governance and democratic institutions, and urged civil society groups, relevant authorities, and the international community to take notice and act to protect democracy in Nigeria.