Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, has urged the Federal Government to either guarantee the safety and wellbeing of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, or grant him immediate bail, warning that the administration would be held responsible if any harm befalls him.
El-Rufai has remained in custody since February 16 after honouring an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He was subsequently transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Following his transfer, officials reportedly conducted a search of his Abuja residence, an action he has challenged in court.
Providing an update on his condition, Muyiwa Adekeye, a media aide to the former governor, alleged that El-Rufai experienced a nosebleed in detention and that one of his wives was prevented from handing him food directly.
Reacting via his social media platforms, Atiku described the reports as deeply concerning, stressing that El-Rufai’s health and welfare are matters of serious concern to his family and associates.
He maintained that if the authorities are unable to safeguard his health and fundamental rights, the proper course of action is to release him on bail without delay.
“If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable,” Atiku stated.
The former vice-president also called on the Federal Government to clarify which agency is currently detaining the former governor, whether the EFCC, the ICPC, the State Security Service or any other security body.
He argued that secrecy surrounding detention only heightens public suspicion and insisted that Nigerians deserve full transparency.
According to him, whichever agency has custody of El-Rufai bears a constitutional responsibility to ensure his safety, dignity, access to medical care, and unhindered communication with his family and legal representatives.
Atiku further expressed concern over what he described as a growing perception of selective prosecution, alleging that opposition figures appear to face more aggressive scrutiny than others.
He warned that anti-corruption efforts risk losing credibility if they are seen as partisan or politically motivated.
“Justice must be transparent. Accountability must be even-handed. And the rule of law must apply to all — without fear or favour,” he said.
