Women Groups Condemn ‘Unfair Treatment’ Of El-Rufai, Ex-Aides

Women groups operating under the auspices of the Coalition of Women Societies and Associations in Kaduna State have demanded respect for the constitutional rights of former governor Nasir El-Rufai, his former Chief of Staff, Bashir Saidu, and other associates who served under his administration.

The coalition of women groups expressed concern over what it described as the continued political persecution and unfair treatment of former governor El-Rufai and his former aides.

In a statement signed by convener of the women groups, Hon. Hafsat M. Baba, and Hajiya Laila Gambo Umaru on behalf of over 100 women groups and associations across the state, called for the immediate and unconditional release of any of the affected persons if they are being detained or subjected to restrictions contrary to the law.

The coalition also urged security agencies, anti-corruption bodies and public institutions to remain impartial and avoid political influence in the discharge of their responsibilities.

According to the statement, selective treatment, intimidation and the alleged misuse of state institutions against political figures could weaken democratic values and set dangerous precedents for the future.

The women groups said they were prepared to pursue lawful and democratic means, including advocacy, civic engagement, legal consultations and peaceful actions, to ensure the protection of constitutional rights.

They also called on civil society organisations, the media, democratic institutions and the international community to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic governance, human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.

The women groups said they were worried by reports of investigations, allegations and actions allegedly targeted at El-Rufai and his former aides, stressing that political differences should not be allowed to undermine the constitutional rights and personal liberties of any Nigerian.

The coalition said democracy thrives when justice, fairness and the rule of law are upheld, regardless of an individual’s political affiliation or status.

The statement noted that El-Rufai occupies a prominent place in Nigeria’s political landscape, citing his role as a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his contributions to the party’s growth and consolidation.

The coalition also recalled his support for the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, saying he was among leading APC figures who campaigned vigorously for the party’s victory across the country.

The women groups commended El-Rufai’s administration for what they described as significant infrastructural development and reforms in Kaduna State.

“It is deeply troubling that a public servant who contributed significantly to governance, democratic consolidation and national development, alongside his diligent associates, now appears to be the subject of sustained political attacks and negative profiling,” the statement said.

The groups while acknowledging that nobody is above the law, maintained that allegations against any individual must be pursued through transparent legal processes and in strict compliance with constitutional provisions.