Face Your Charges, Don’t Distract Nigerians, Group Tells El-Rufai

The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) yesterday urged former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to stop what it described as diversionary tactics and to face ongoing investigations by anti-graft and security agencies.

DWI expressed concern over El-Rufai’s admission that he breached the communication lines of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), calling it a violation of established national security protocols.

In a statement issued by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr Tunji Bamidele, the group said El-Rufai is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) over serious allegations.

Bamidele said: “As he faces serious investigations by multiple anti-graft and security agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS), El-Rufai’s attempts to divert attention from these grave allegations are not only disingenuous but also pose a significant threat to our national security.

“El-Rufai has openly admitted to breaching the communication lines of the National Security Adviser (NSA), a move that raises serious concerns about his respect for established protocols and the sanctity of our national security apparatus.

“His actions cannot be dismissed as mere political manoeuvring; they represent a blatant disregard for the laws and principles that govern our nation. The Democracy Watch Initiative views this breach as a critical threat to our collective safety and a violation of the trust placed in our leaders.”

He recalled that in a recent statement, El-Rufai attempted to justify his actions by claiming that he sought clarification from the NSA regarding reports of the importation of thallium sulphate, a highly toxic substance. While we acknowledge the importance of transparency and accountability, his approach raises more questions than it answers.

He added, “Instead of addressing the serious allegations against him, El-Rufai has chosen to deflect responsibility and create a narrative that seeks to paint him as a concerned citizen rather than a man under investigation. This tactic is not only misleading but also undermines the gravity of the situation.

“The Democracy Watch Initiative firmly believes that no individual is above the law, regardless of their political stature or past positions of power. El-Rufai must face the full wrath of the law to ensure that justice is served and that national safety is prioritised.

“The rule of law is the bedrock of our democracy, and it is imperative that all citizens, especially those in positions of authority, are held accountable for their actions.”

The organisation called on relevant authorities to expedite investigations and ensure due process without interference, stressing that the rule of law remains the foundation of democracy.

“The integrity of our institutions must be upheld, and any attempts to manipulate public perception or evade accountability must be met with unwavering resistance. As a nation, we cannot afford to allow diversionary tactics to cloud our judgment or distract us from the pressing issues at hand.

“The safety and security of our citizens depend on our ability to confront challenges head-on, without succumbing to the distractions of political gamesmanship. The Democracy Watch Initiative urges all citizens to remain vigilant and engaged in the democratic process, advocating for transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

“We reiterate our call for justice in this matter. The actions of Nasir El-Rufai must be scrutinised, and he must answer for the implications of his decisions. Only through a commitment to accountability can we ensure a safer and more democratic Nigeria for all.”