The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned an alleged attempt by security operatives to arrest former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday, following his return from Cairo, Egypt.
In a statement on Friday in Abuja, ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi described the incident as troubling and inconsistent with established legal procedures. The party warned that such actions could undermine constitutional safeguards and democratic accountability.
According to ADC, the alleged move raises serious concerns about due process and the political neutrality expected of security and law enforcement agencies. The party said actions perceived as politically motivated could weaken public trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
The party also said the incident reflects a troubling and growing pattern of selective pressure allegedly targeting opposition figures across the country. ADC criticized what it described as a double standard in the ongoing anti-corruption fight, emphasizing that while no individual is above the law, it must never be weaponized against political opponents.
“Reports indicate that security operatives lay in wait for Malam El-Rufai at the airport with the apparent intention to effect an arrest. Yet no warrant was presented at the time of the attempted action, raising significant legal and constitutional concerns. If confirmed, this represents not merely a procedural lapse but a dangerous signal that due process is treated as optional,” the party said.
ADC said selective accountability erodes faith in the rule of law and damages the moral authority of government. The party reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and rule of law, while rejecting the targeting of opposition leaders.
“Accountability must be evenly handed, due process must be visible, and justice must never wear partisan colours. Government must understand that democracy’s strength is measured not by how it treats allies but how it treats critics,” the statement added.
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The party called on security and law enforcement agencies to remain mindful of their professional and constitutional duties. ADC said it would continue to monitor developments closely and would not hesitate to act wherever democratic norms are threatened.
“Political competition in Nigeria must be settled through persuasion and the ballot, not through selective law enforcement,” the statement concluded.
