The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as an alleged attempt by security operatives to arrest former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport following his arrival from Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party characterised the incident as troubling and inconsistent with established legal procedures.
According to the ADC, reports indicated that security operatives were stationed at the airport with the apparent intention of effecting an arrest but failed to present a warrant at the time of the alleged action. The party said such a move, if confirmed, would raise serious constitutional and legal concerns.
The ADC warned that actions perceived as politically motivated could undermine public trust in democratic institutions and erode confidence in the rule of law. It added that the development reflected what it called a growing pattern of selective pressure targeting opposition figures.
While maintaining that no individual is above the law, the party stressed that anti-corruption efforts must not be weaponised against political opponents. It also decried what it described as a double standard in the ongoing fight against corruption.
“Accountability must be evenly handed, due process must be visible, and justice must never wear partisan colours,” the statement read, adding that democracy is measured by how governments treat critics as much as allies.
The ADC called on security and law enforcement agencies to adhere strictly to their constitutional responsibilities and uphold professional neutrality. It said it would continue to monitor developments closely and take necessary steps should democratic norms be threatened.
