Atiku Abubakar Demands Release of Sheikh Sani Khalifa

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for the immediate release of Sheikh Sani Khalifa, an Islamic cleric based in Zaria, Kaduna, who has reportedly been detained since December 2025 under allegations of involvement in a coup plot. Atiku emphasized that Khalifa has not been formally charged in court, which he argues constitutes a violation of fundamental rights.

He highlighted that the prolonged detention without due process raises serious constitutional and human rights concerns. Atiku referenced a subsisting order from the Federal High Court directing that Khalifa be presented in court, which he claims has been ignored.

He stated, "No democracy without strict adherence to the rule of law," asserting that no security agency is above the constitution. He criticized the ongoing detention, noting that it denies Khalifa access to family, legal counsel, and adequate medical care, which he views as a violation of constitutional rights.

Atiku urged security agencies to either release Khalifa or charge him in a competent court, warning against unlawful detention and abuse of power.