Former governor alleges politically motivated harassment

The former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has raised a fresh alarm over a purported plan to have him arrested upon his return to Nigeria.

In a confidential memo addressed to several stakeholders, El-Rufai pointed the finger at the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. He claimed that Ribadu is “actively pressing” security agencies to detain him on trumped-up charges to eliminate him as a 2027 competitor.

El-Rufai, who is currently outside the country, described the move as a “national embarrassment” and a violation of his fundamental rights. He argued that since he withdrew his interest in serving in the Tinubu administration, his allies have been subjected to unlawful investigations. He noted that his former Chief of Staff and several commissioners have already spent weeks in detention without any formal charges.

Ribadu denies involvement in any media battle

The Office of the National Security Adviser has been quick to refute these allegations, describing them as “baseless baiting.” Nuhu Ribadu stated that he is too busy with the nation’s pressing security challenges to engage in a media war with a former associate. He maintained that he has never discussed any 2031 presidential ambition with anyone and is fully focused on President Tinubu’s success.

The relationship between El-Rufai and Ribadu, which dates back decades, has completely deteriorated in recent years. This rift has created a deep divide within the ruling All Progressives Congress and the broader Northern political elite. Many observers believe this public spat is the opening salvo of the power struggle for the next election cycle.

Atiku Abubakar slams the attempted arrest

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also waded into the controversy, condemning any attempt to use security agencies for political persecution. He stated that the “gestapo-style” intimidation of opposition figures has no place in a democratic Nigeria. Atiku’s support for El-Rufai has led to rumors of a potential political realignment between the two heavyweights.

The Nigerian public remains divided on the issue, with some calling for a full investigation into El-Rufai’s tenure as governor and others defending his right to free speech. The Department of State Services has not officially confirmed whether there is an active warrant for the former governor’s arrest. However, the tension in Abuja is palpable as the “morning after” El-Rufai’s return approaches.

Seeking constitutional due process in the law

El-Rufai has stated that he does not seek immunity from investigation but demands that any legal process follow the rule of law. He wants any arrest to be based on a disclosed offense and for his counsel to have unhindered access to him. He reminded his critics that similar attempts to “persecute” him under previous administrations failed in the courts.

The escalating war of words between these political titans is a distraction from the economic and security crises facing the nation. Nigeria needs its leaders to work together rather than engaging in personal vendettas that weaken democratic institutions. Whether El-Rufai will return to face his “accusers” remains the most anticipated political event of the month.