ADC Kaduna Leaders Allege Political Persecution Of El-Rufai, Opposition Figures; Accuse FG Of Undermining Democracy

ADC Kaduna Leaders Allege Political Persecution of El-Rufai, Opposition Figures; Accuse FG of Undermining Democracy

Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State have accused the Federal Government of Nigeria of engaging in political persecution against former Kaduna Governor Nasir el Rufai and other opposition figures, asserting that such actions undermine democratic ideals and erode public trust in national institutions. The allegations were made during a press briefing in Kaduna, where party officials condemned what they described as the targeted harassment of political opponents under the guise of law enforcemen According to ADC Kaduna leaders, recent actions by security and anti-graft agencies against Nasir el-Rufai and other prominent opposition politicians reflect selective application of justice aimed at weakening political competition ahead of future elections. The party contended that repeated summonses, investigations, and public statements by government officials against opposition leaders have created an atmosphere of intimidation, which they say is detrimental to Nigeria’s democratic process. The ADC faction criticised the Federal Government for what it called an “unwarranted clampdown on dissenting voices,” arguing that political rivalry should be resolved through the ballot box rather than through legal or administrative pressure. Speakers at the briefing stressed that democracy thrives on healthy debate, respect for political plurality, and equality before the law principles they allege are being eroded by federal actions perceived as targeting opposition figures disproportionately.

The party urged relevant authorities to uphold constitutional protections and ensure that all citizens, regardless of political affiliation, receive fair and impartial treatment under the law. ADC Kaduna representatives called on national institutions including the judiciary and legislative bodies to reaffirm their independence and guard against any attempts to politicise law enforcement processes. While the Federal Government has not yet issued an official response to the ADC Kaduna allegations, political analysts say accusations of selective prosecution and political bias have become increasingly common in Nigeria’s heated political climate. Observers note that opposition parties have frequently decried the timing and nature of government investigations into rival politicians, especially in the run-up to major electoral cycles.

The ADC leaders warned that continued political pressure on opposition figures could further polarise the nation’s political landscape and discourage civic engagement among citizens. They vowed to pursue legal avenues to challenge what they described as punitive actions against their members and allies, calling for transparent investigations that respect due process.