COPAC Demands Release or Charges for El-Rufai

The Coalition of Political Action Committee (COPAC) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to either formally charge Nasir El-Rufai or release him immediately. COPAC's statement, made during a meeting convened by Aminu Datti in Abuja on Sunday, emphasized that continued detention beyond the legally permitted period violates both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights laws.

El-Rufai voluntarily responded to an invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on February 16 and remained in custody until the night of February 18, when he was transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission for further investigation into alleged financial misconduct. COPAC stressed that the investigation should be temporary and that any remand order obtained in El-Rufai's case has expired.

The coalition warned that actions outside legal options are unconstitutional and could lead to the abuse of state power. They also urged opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, to speak against the harassment of political figures.