Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Federal Government to provide clear information regarding the detention of a former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, amid reports of deteriorating health and restricted access to family members and legal counsel.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Atiku described the development as “a matter of grave concern to his family, friends, and associates,” stressing that transparency was crucial in matters involving the liberty of any citizen.
He said the Federal Government owed Nigerians an explanation, particularly on which security or anti-corruption agency was responsible for the former governor’s custody.
“The Federal Government owes Nigerians clarity. It must state clearly which agency is holding him, whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission, the State Security Service, or any other arm of the security establishment,” Atiku stated.
He warned that a lack of openness in detention matters could undermine public trust in institutions and heighten concerns among citizens.
“Secrecy in matters of detention only fuels suspicion. Nigerians deserve transparency. Whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional duty to guarantee his safety, dignity, access to medical care, and access to his family and legal representatives,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from the Federal Government or any of the mentioned agencies regarding the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s detention.
