Former VP warns of health risks, calls for bail or clear disclosure of holding agency.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a strong warning to the Federal Government over the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, demanding transparency regarding which security agency is holding him and under what authority.
In a statement released on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Atiku expressed concern over what he described as secrecy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention, warning that such opacity only fuels public suspicion and undermines confidence in the justice system.
Demand for Clarity
“The Federal Government owes Nigerians clarity. It must state clearly which agency is holding him… Secrecy in matters of detention only fuels suspicion. Nigerians deserve transparency,” Atiku stated.
His remarks come amid confusion over El-Rufai’s custody status. The former governor was initially arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged money laundering, after which the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) immediately took him into custody .
On Wednesday, when El-Rufai was scheduled for arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Department of State Services (DSS) failed to produce him, with counsel explaining that he remained in ICPC custody .
Health and Rights Concerns
Atiku further warned that continued detention without proper judicial process could endanger El-Rufai’s health and fundamental rights.
“If the authorities cannot guarantee his health and fundamental rights, the lawful and humane course of action is to grant him bail without delay. If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable.”
Reports from El-Rufai’s media team claim the former governor suffered a nosebleed in detention and was denied access to meals brought by family members —allegations that have heightened concern among his supporters and human rights advocates.
Background of Detention
El-Rufai faces multiple investigations:
· EFCC: Alleged money laundering during his tenure as Kaduna State governor
· ICPC: Ongoing probe into separate corruption allegations
· DSS: A three-count charge over his public admission that associates unlawfully intercepted the phone communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu
His arraignment on the DSS charges was adjourned to April 23, 2026, after the agency failed to produce him in court .
Political Reactions
Atiku’s intervention adds to growing political pressure on the Tinubu administration over the treatment of opposition figures. Several civil society organizations and political allies of El-Rufai have called for his release or proper judicial oversight of his detention.
The former VP’s statement underscores the tension between the government and opposition leaders, with implications for the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
No Official Response
As of the time of this report, the Presidency, EFCC, ICPC, and DSS have not issued any official response to Atiku’s allegations or demands for transparency.
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