Nigerian Opposition Party Alleges Selective Justice in Cases Against Senior Figures
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has asserted that no Nigerian is exempt from the law, but has accused authorities of applying justice selectively in the ongoing legal cases against two of its prominent members: former Attorney General Abubakar Malami and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC declared it would not abandon its members facing prosecution. The party’s stance comes amid separate legal proceedings involving the two leaders.
Malami is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on undisclosed charges. Last week, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered his detention at the Kuje Correctional Centre. Separately, El-Rufai responded to an EFCC invitation on February 16. He was held until the night of February 18 before being transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) for further investigation into alleged financial misconduct.
While emphasising respect for the rule of law, the ADC warned against what it described as politically motivated, uneven enforcement. “As a law-abiding party, it is important to state that no citizen, no matter their position, is above the law. However, in a constitutional democracy, justice must be applied evenly, transparently and without political motives,” the statement read.
The party urged a comparison with other high-profile cases. It cited a recent matter involving serious allegations of passport forgery and international conspiracy, noting that the accused individuals were granted bail and their case has advanced swiftly through the courts. “In contrast, in the cases involving Abubakar Malami and Nasir El-Rufai, we have seen prolonged detention, transfers between agencies and processes that appear to precede formal prosecution,” the ADC stated.
The party framed its position as a constitutional principle, not partisan politics. “Abubakar Malami and Nasir El-Rufai are first citizens of Nigeria before they are opposition leaders or members of our party,” it said, reiterating the presumption of innocence. “That presumption is not a favour. It is a constitutional right. We will stand by our members as they defend themselves and ensure they are not intimidated or denied their rights as Nigerian citizens.”
The ADC’s statement highlights the persistent tension between law enforcement actions and opposition political figures in Nigeria, raising questions about procedural fairness that extend beyond the specific cases mentioned. The outcome of these proceedings is likely to be closely watched for signals regarding the equitable application of the law.
