Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s court bail hearing is set for April 14, and many Nigerians are closely following the case. But beyond the court case itself, the way he has been treated by government agencies reveals a bigger problem political persecution. This kind of harassment is wrong and dangerous for Nigeria’s democracy.
Right from the moment Governor El-Rufai returned to Nigeria, he faced rude and unfair treatment from security agents. He was harassed at the airport. This was just the start of ongoing pressure from government agencies. The Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) began summoning him. He honored these invitations, but since then, he has been held in ICPC custody. While it is normal for government officials to be questioned if there are real concerns, the way El-Rufai was treated felt more like harassment aimed to intimidate him rather than a fair investigation.
What is even more shocking is that Governor El-Rufai was held illegally in detention. This was a serious violation of his rights. Because of this illegal detention, he was unable to see his mother before she passed away. Although he was briefly released to attend her burial, he was soon taken back into detention. No one should ever have to go through such treatment, no matter who they are or what position they hold.
What makes this even worse is the timing and pattern of harassment. It feels like punishment for his political decisions. Governor El-Rufai is known for making tough decisions. He has taken bold steps to improve Kaduna State, focusing on security, infrastructure, and governance reforms. These actions have not always been popular with everyone, especially those who disagree with his political views or lose out because of his policies. Unfortunately, instead of engaging in democratic debates or offering alternative solutions, some people and political opponents seem to be using the courts as weapons to attack him.
Using the law as a weapon against political opponents is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy. When leaders fear being dragged into court or detained illegally just for doing their jobs or taking firm stands, it stops them from acting in the country’s best interest. It makes leadership risky and slows Nigeria’s progress.
At the heart of this is the principle of fairness. Governor El-Rufai deserves a fair trial, just like any other citizen. The legal process should be free from political influence. Evidence should be presented openly and honestly. No one should be judged based on rumors, politics, or public opinion.
Instead of constantly harassing El-Rufai, the government and the agencies involved should focus on improving policies and governance for the people. Nigeria needs open discussions and respect for different opinions not threats, illegal detentions, or intimidation.
It’s also important for all Nigerians to understand the human side of this story. Behind every politician is a person with a family, feelings, and pain. Governor El-Rufai was detained illegally and was unable to see his mother before she passed, causing him great personal hurt. Though he was released in time to attend her funeral, the emotional toll of being held unlawfully during such a difficult time shows how harsh and unfair his treatment has been. No country should allow this kind of cruelty.
This case is a wake-up call. Nigeria’s democracy is fragile and can easily be damaged if such political persecutions continue. When citizens see that even top leaders do not receive fair treatment, trust in government and democratic institutions weakens. This hurts everyone.
I call on the government of Bola Tinubu, DSS, EFCC, ICPC, and other bodies to stop persecuting Governor El-Rufai. Let him do his work without fear of harassment or unfair treatment. Let the upcoming court hearing be about justice, not politics. The country will be better off when laws are applied fairly and political differences are handled through dialogue instead of court cases and intimidation.
Finally, I remind Nigerians that democracy is about respecting rights, following the law, and protecting leaders who dare to make tough decisions for the good of the people. Governor El-Rufai deserves to be treated with fairness and respect. The unjust treatment against him must end now.
If Nigeria wants to grow and truly be a free and fair country, it must stand against political witch hunts political opponent to make things better even if they are not perfect.
Let’s hope the government sees reason and stops the harassment. The future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on it.
Free Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai
Nkiruka Nistoran is online publisher of NN News Media
