Coalition Demands Charges or Release for El-Rufai

The Coalition of Political Action Committees (COPAC) has called on the Nigerian federal government to either formally charge former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai or release him without delay. The coalition warned that holding El-Rufai beyond the legally approved period constitutes a violation of Nigeria's constitution and international human rights laws.

COPAC made this statement in Abuja on Sunday, led by Aminu Datti. El-Rufai was reportedly detained after honoring an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16, and remained in custody until the night of February 18.

The coalition emphasized that his detention should not continue indefinitely and that either formal charges should be filed or he should be released. They cited Section 35 of the Nigerian constitution, which guarantees personal liberty, and expressed concerns about the misuse of investigative powers against political figures.

COPAC also urged prominent opposition leaders to speak out against the intimidation of political figures.