A senior official of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of targeting former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai with coordinated legal action, alleging the move is politically motivated.
Oladimeji Fabiyi, the ADC’s Deputy National Financial Secretary and a member of its National Working Committee, issued the criticism in a statement on Thursday. He contended that while numerous members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) face corruption allegations, federal anti-graft agencies have focused their efforts on prominent opposition figures like El-Rufai.
Fabiyi specifically cited the involvement of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) as evidence of a “coordinated onslaught.” He suggested the Presidency is driven by fear of El-Rufai’s political influence and is concerned about securing a conviction.
“The Presidency seems deeply uncomfortable, worried, and disturbed by the prospect that it may be difficult to secure a conviction against El-Rufai,” Fabiyi stated. He described the former governor as a “political prisoner of war,” arguing the actions reflect a deteriorating democratic environment.
The statement contrasted the current situation with the APC’s past, referencing former party chairman Adams Oshiomhole’s 2022 remark that new APC members’ corruption allegations would be forgiven. Fabiyi noted the same government that absorbed politicians facing graft probes is now aggressively pursuing opposition leaders, sacrificing “decorum, responsibility, and morality.”
El-Rufai, a powerful figure in northern politics and a key former APC strategist, has been the subject of public speculation regarding potential legal troubles since Tinubu’s administration began. The EFCC has previously stated its operations are independent and not influenced by political considerations.
Analysts note that accusations of selective justice are common in Nigeria’s polarized political landscape, often emerging when ruling parties consolidate power. The ADC’s statement underscores the growing tensions between the presidency and influential opposition figures ahead of future elections.
The development adds to scrutiny on the Tinubu administration’s commitment to impartial law enforcement. Observers will watch whether any formal charges are brought against El-Rufai or if the investigations remain dormant, which could further fuel debates on the politicization of Nigeria’s security and anti-corruption agencies.
