The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has urged federal authorities to review the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, warning that actions perceived as arbitrary or politically motivated threaten to erode public trust in the nation’s democratic institutions.
In an official statement issued in Abuja on Monday, August 31, 2026, titled “Urgent Call for Adherence to Rule of Law in the Continued Detention of Mallam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufa’i,” the Islamic body expressed grave concern over the circumstances surrounding the former governor’s long-standing incarceration and reported difficulties in meeting his bail terms.
The statement, signed by SCSN Secretary-General Nafiu Baba Ahmad, stressed that while the council does not condone or shield criminality, the enforcement of justice must strictly align with constitutional provisions.
”As an organisation committed to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria believes that Nigeria operates under a constitutional democracy where the rights and liberties of all citizens must be respected, irrespective of status, political affiliation, or personal disposition,” Baba Ahmad stated.
“The principles of due process, fair hearing, and lawful detention are not optional, but fundamental pillars of justice that must be upheld at all times.”
El-Rufai, who has been in custody since February, faces a nine-count amended charge brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) at the Federal High Court in Abuja, involving allegations of procurement fraud, money laundering, and public fund misappropriation during his eight-year tenure as governor.
He is also facing a separate five-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) over the alleged unlawful interception of communications involving National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu allegations El-Rufai has consistently denied.
The Council warned that failure to demonstrate transparency in high-profile proceedings risks damaging the credibility of state institutions.
”Actions perceived as arbitrary, politically motivated, or inconsistent with the rule of law risk undermining public confidence in state institutions and eroding the very fabric of democratic governance,” the SCSN added, urging authorities to ensure that justice is not only done, but visibly seen to be done.
