Coalition Tackles Atiku Over Remarks On El-Rufai’s Detention, Demands Accountability

A civil society coalition, Kaduna Voices United (KVU), has criticised recent comments by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar concerning the detention and investigation of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing the remarks as reflective of double standards on issues of accountability and governance.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Yariok Makama Goje, the group said that while concerns over El-Rufai’s health and welfare are legitimate, public discourse must not overlook the serious legal allegations currently facing the former governor.

KVU was reacting to comments credited to Atiku, who reportedly warned that the Federal Government should be held responsible if anything adverse happens to El-Rufai, following reports that he suffered a nosebleed while in detention.

The former Vice President described the situation as “deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democracy,” while calling for transparency regarding the agency responsible for the former governor’s detention.

The coalition questioned what it described as the absence of similar calls for accountability during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor between 2015 and 2023, when allegations of financial mismanagement and intimidation of critics were frequently raised.

Goje said: “The silence from prominent figures, including Atiku Abubakar, during those tumultuous times raises profound concerns about the integrity of their current positions.

The case of Nasir El-Rufai serves as a critical example of the potential consequences of alleged misconduct in office.

“It is, therefore, not only absurd but also dangerous to consider vindicating El-Rufai of the significant legal challenges he faces, which include serious criminal charges filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) and investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

“These allegations range from cybercrime to corruption, and they warrant thorough scrutiny, not dismissal.

The DSS has filed three charges against El-Rufai at the Federal High Court in Abuja, primarily stemming from comments made during a February 13, 2026, interview on Arise TV.

“In this interview, El-Rufai claimed to have intercepted phone calls belonging to the National Security Adviser, an assertion that has raised eyebrows and provoked legal action.

The charges against him include unlawful wiretapping, failure to report intercepted communications, and compromising national security.”

The coalition further referenced ongoing investigations by anti-graft agencies into alleged corruption and financial misconduct during El-Rufai’s administration, including claims involving the diversion of public funds linked to major infrastructure projects.

It argued that such allegations require thorough legal examination rather than political advocacy aimed at securing premature vindication.

Goje added: “In addition to the DSS charges, El-Rufai is also under investigation by the EFCC and ICPC concerning allegations of corruption and financial misconduct during his tenure as governor from 2015 to 2023.

“The EFCC’s focus on the alleged diversion of ₦432 billion and money laundering linked to various projects, including the Kaduna Light Rail project, illustrates the serious nature of the claims against him.

“The diversion of public funds, especially in a country where economic resources are scarce and public services are often underfunded, is a betrayal of the trust placed in public officials.

“The IPCC’s investigation into allegations of abuse of office and procurement infractions further compounds the severity of the situation. Such allegations suggest the systematic exploitation of power for personal gain, which not only diminishes the credibility of public office but also erodes public confidence in governance.

“In a democracy, accountability is crucial; public officials must be held to the highest standards of conduct to ensure that they serve the interests of the people rather than their own.

“It is essential to recognize that the legal challenges facing El-Rufai are not merely personal issues; they represent a broader concern about governance, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria.

To advocate for his vindication in the face of such serious allegations undermines the principles of justice and accountability that are foundational to a functioning democracy.

“Public officials must be held accountable for their actions, particularly when those actions have the potential to harm national security or involve the misappropriation of public funds.

The legal processes initiated by the DSS, EFCC, and ICPC are not just about punishing wrongdoers; they are about ensuring that public office is not misused and that the rule of law prevails.

“The notion of vindicating Nasir El-Rufai of the significant legal challenges he faces is not only unrealistic but also counterproductive to the ideals of justice and accountability.

The serious nature of the charges against him demands a thorough investigation and, if warranted, appropriate legal consequences.

“It is troubling to witness a sudden outpouring of concern for El-Rufai’s welfare when many of us have long voiced the need for accountability regarding his actions while in office.

“The apparent neglect of ethical standards during his governorship, which included allegations of corruption and abuse of power, is now overshadowed by misplaced sympathy as he faces the consequences of his past actions.

“This stark contrast is not only hypocritical but also emblematic of a broader culture of impunity that has long plagued our political landscape. Atiku’s statements reflect a troubling double standard and a degree of shamelessness that warrants scrutiny.

.“It is irresponsible to demand accountability for El-Rufai’s treatment while remaining silent on the very issues that have now come back to haunt him.

The notion that one’s health and welfare should be prioritised over the accountability of public officials who exploited their positions for personal gain is a dangerous precedent.

“It suggests that political connections can shield individuals from the repercussions of their actions, undermining the principles of justice and equality before the law. Furthermore, while the call for transparency in matters of detention is valid, it should not be selectively applied.

“The same fervour with which Atiku demands clarity regarding El-Rufai’s detention should extend to all individuals facing allegations of corruption and misconduct.

The Nigerian populace deserves a consistent and unwavering commitment to transparency, irrespective of political affiliations or past loyalties.”

Kaduna Voices United therefore urged political leaders to promote consistency in defending democratic values and accountability rather than advancing partisan positions.

“It is imperative to uphold the values of justice, accountability, and integrity rather than indulging in selective outrage that serves only to protect political interests. The health and welfare of any individual, regardless of their past, should be a concern for all; however, it must not eclipse the need for accountability and justice.”

The group called on the Federal Government to ensure due process in handling El-Rufai’s case while providing clarity on the circumstances surrounding his detention.

It reiterated its commitment to advocating transparency, justice, and institutional accountability, insisting that strengthening the rule of law remains essential to Nigeria’s democratic development.