The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has expressed concern over the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, calling on authorities to ensure his case is handled strictly in accordance with the law.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Secretary-General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the council noted that reported difficulties in meeting the bail conditions granted to El-Rufai could raise questions about adherence to established legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.
The SCSN emphasised that El-Rufai, like every Nigerian, is entitled to his fundamental rights and must be presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court. It stressed that Nigeria operates a constitutional democracy in which due process, fair hearing and lawful detention must be respected, irrespective of an individual’s political status, affiliation or disposition.
The council made clear that its position should not be seen as an endorsement of any alleged wrongdoing. “The Council does not, under any circumstances, support or condone criminality in any form by anyone. However, the pursuit of justice must itself be just,” the statement said.
It warned that any action perceived as arbitrary or politically motivated could undermine public confidence in government institutions and threaten democratic governance. The SCSN therefore urged relevant authorities to ensure that every stage of El-Rufai’s legal proceedings complies with the Constitution and other applicable laws, and to avoid steps that could create an impression of political persecution. Fairness, transparency and respect for the rule of law, it added, remain essential.
El-Rufai is currently facing trial on a nine-count amended charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The charges relate to alleged abuse of office, fraud, irregular award and execution of public contracts, money laundering, conferring of undue advantage and unlawful handling of public funds during his tenure as Kaduna State governor.
He is also facing a separate five-count amended charge brought by the Department of State Services (DSS) concerning allegations of unlawful tapping of telephone conversations linked to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
El-Rufai has denied the allegations. His continued detention and the conditions attached to his bail have remained points of contention.
The SCSN insisted that the former governor’s case, like that of any other citizen, must be determined through due process and a fair judicial process.
