The continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has drawn concern from the Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN), which has called on authorities to uphold the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Monday, the council’s Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s detention and reported difficulties in meeting his bail conditions.
The SCSN said the situation could raise questions about legal procedures and constitutional protections, stressing that El-Rufai, like every Nigerian, is entitled to his fundamental rights and remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
It also emphasised that due process, fair hearing and lawful detention must be observed regardless of a person’s political status or affiliation.
“The Council does not, under any circumstances, support or condone criminality in any form by anyone. However, the pursuit of justice must itself be just”, it said.
The council warned that actions perceived as arbitrary or politically motivated could undermine public confidence in government institutions and weaken democratic governance.
It therefore urged the authorities to ensure that all proceedings against El-Rufai comply with the Constitution and relevant laws, while avoiding actions that could be interpreted as political persecution.
El-Rufai is facing legal proceedings over alleged offences linked to his tenure as Kaduna State governor.
He is standing trial on a nine-count amended charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, involving allegations of abuse of office, fraud, irregular contracts, money laundering and unlawful handling of public funds.
He is also facing a separate five-count amended charge by the Department of State Services over alleged unlawful recording of telephone conversations involving National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
El-Rufai has denied the allegations, while disputes over the legal proceedings and his bail conditions continue.
