SCSN Urges Fair Treatment for El-Rufai Amid Detention

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has voiced concerns regarding the ongoing detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, calling for his case to be managed in accordance with legal standards. In a statement from Secretary-General Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the SCSN highlighted issues surrounding the difficulty in meeting El-Rufai's bail conditions, which could indicate non-compliance with legal procedures.

The council reaffirmed that El-Rufai is entitled to his rights and should be presumed innocent until proven guilty. It clarified that its stance does not endorse any alleged misconduct by El-Rufai.

The SCSN warned against actions perceived as politically motivated, which could undermine public trust in government institutions. El-Rufai is currently facing a nine-count amended charge from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) related to abuse of office and money laundering, as well as a separate five-count charge from the Department of State Services concerning unlawful surveillance activities.

El-Rufai has denied all allegations.