Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has raised concerns about a possible arrest by the Federal Government, suggesting that recent developments may point to him as the next target in what he views as a growing wave of political intimidation against opposition figures.
In an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, El-Rufai expressed apprehension about his future, citing the detention of several of his close allies. “Four individuals who worked with me in Kaduna have been arrested, and I believe it’s only a matter of time before they come for me,” he said. While he has not yet been detained, El-Rufai’s comments imply that his associates’ arrests could be a precursor to his own.
The former governor, who recently left the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), also accused the current political leadership of pressuring politicians to either defect to the APC or remain in the party. According to El-Rufai, this environment of fear and coercion is forcing many to make decisions out of self-preservation, rather than genuine political conviction.
El-Rufai has been vocal in his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, especially in the context of the country’s current political climate. His remarks came amid the arrest and ongoing trial of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, who is facing charges ranging from abuse of office to money laundering. Malami, who also switched allegiances to the ADC, has denied the accusations, labeling the charges as part of a “political witch-hunt” designed to target him because of his opposition stance.
The Federal Government and the APC have yet to officially comment on El-Rufai’s claims. However, the situation continues to highlight the deepening political divisions in Nigeria as opposition leaders face increasing pressure.