Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has urged authorities to ensure fairness and due process in the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, by the Department of State Services.
In a statement released on Friday, Frank appealed to security agencies to respect El-Rufai’s fundamental rights and allow him enough time and opportunity to properly prepare his defence.
He noted that the former governor willingly honoured the invitation of security operatives immediately after returning to Nigeria from Egypt, insisting that the fight against corruption must always be guided by justice, rule of law and fairness.
“For the umpteenth time, I remain in support of the anti-corruption war. But justice, fairness, due process and the rule of law must never be abandoned under any condition,” Frank stated.
He further called on northern leaders, youths, civil society groups and the international community to closely monitor the situation and speak up for El-Rufai’s release.
“I pray northern elders and youths will not fold their arms and allow anything unjust happen to Mallam El-Rufai,” he added.
Frank also appealed to the Nigerian Bar Association, religious leaders, traditional rulers, northern stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to pay attention to the matter and demand transparency from security agencies.
According to him, El-Rufai should be granted immediate release to enable him adequately defend himself against any allegations.
The former APC spokesman described El-Rufai as a major political figure who played a crucial role during the 2023 general elections, urging Nigerians to keep a close watch on events surrounding his detention.
He also advised security agencies to handle the matter professionally, transparently and strictly within the bounds of the law, stressing that accountability and justice must remain the guiding principles in every action taken against the former governor.
El-Rufai remains one of the notable figures in Nigeria’s political space following his years as Kaduna State governor and his active involvement in national politics.