Pressure has mounted on the Federal Government as the Coalition Political Action Committee (COPAC) demanded that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, be either formally charged in court or released immediately. The coalition warned that keeping him in detention beyond the legally permitted period would amount to a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and international human […]

Pressure has mounted on the Federal Government as the Coalition Political Action Committee (COPAC) demanded that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, be either formally charged in court or released immediately.

The coalition warned that keeping him in detention beyond the legally permitted period would amount to a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights laws.

COPAC made the demand in Abuja on Sunday through its convener, Aminu Datti-Ahmed, who stressed that the rule of law must never be compromised for political interests.

El-Rufai had earlier honoured an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16.

He was reportedly held by the anti-graft agency until the night of February 18 before he was transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for further investigation over alleged financial misconduct.

However, the former governor has remained in custody since his transfer.

According to the coalition, investigative detention is meant to be temporary and must result in either a formal charge before a competent court or the immediate release of the suspect.

“The 14-day remand order obtained in the case involving Nasir El-Rufai has expired. That order was granted for a specific and limited purpose to allow investigators to complete their work within a constitutional timeframe,” the group said.

The coalition cited Section 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to personal liberty, warning that any detention outside the limits of the law would be unconstitutional.

It also expressed concern about what it described as a disturbing trend where investigative powers are allegedly used selectively against certain political figures.

COPAC therefore called on prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Aminu Tambuwal, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to speak up against what it described as intimidation of opposition leaders.

The coalition urged the Federal Government to either file charges if credible evidence exists or release the former governor without further delay.