The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria has called on relevant authorities to review the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, warning that actions perceived as arbitrary or politically motivated could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The council made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Secretary-General, Nafi’u Baba-Ahmad.
The SCSN urged authorities to ensure that due process was strictly followed in handling El-Rufai’s case, stressing that the rule of law must apply equally to all citizens regardless of their status, political affiliation or personal disposition.
The council said it remained committed to justice, fairness and the rule of law, noting that every Nigerian was entitled to fundamental rights and presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
The statement, titled: “Urgent Call for Adherence to Rule of Law in the Continued Detention of Mallam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufa’i,” expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s continued detention, particularly what it described as the apparent difficulty in meeting his bail conditions.
The council said it did not support or condone criminality but maintained that the pursuit of justice must itself be consistent with established legal procedures and constitutional safeguards.
“Like every Nigerian, Malam Nasir El-Rufai is entitled to his fundamental rights and is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction,” the council said.
It urged relevant authorities to operate strictly within the provisions of the Constitution and existing laws, ensuring that due process was observed at every stage.
The SCSN also called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint and responsibility, warning against actions that could be perceived as politically motivated persecution.
According to the council, Nigeria’s unity and long-term stability depend largely on the credibility of its institutions and the trust citizens place in them.
“Justice must not only be done but must be manifestly seen to be done,” it said, stressing that consistent, impartial and lawful application of justice remained essential to national cohesion and sustainable development.
The council further appealed to the authorities to avoid actions that could erode public confidence in state institutions or weaken the foundations of democratic governance.
It reaffirmed its commitment to advocating justice, protecting citizens’ rights and promoting peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.
