The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified its campaign for the release of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, declaring him a “prisoner of conscience” and urging authorities to grant him immediate freedom as political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to rise.
The opposition party made its position known during its 101st National Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja, where party leaders deliberated on key political and organizational matters affecting the party’s future. The meeting ended with a communiqué that not only addressed internal party affairs but also focused significantly on the continued detention of El-Rufai, which the party described as a matter of national democratic concern.
According to the ADC leadership, the former governor’s detention raises serious questions about civil liberties, due process and the protection of constitutional rights in Nigeria. The party argued that regardless of political affiliations or ongoing legal proceedings, every citizen deserves fair treatment under the law and access to justice without unnecessary delays or restrictions.
In its resolution, the National Executive Committee formally recognized El-Rufai as a prisoner of conscience, a designation often used for individuals believed to be detained because of their political views, beliefs or affiliations rather than as a result of proven criminal conduct. The party insisted that his continued detention has generated growing concern among opposition figures, civil society organizations and supporters who view the matter as a test of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The issue has become one of the most discussed political developments in recent months, particularly given El-Rufai’s influence within opposition politics and his role in ongoing realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. Once regarded as a prominent figure within the ruling political establishment, the former Kaduna governor has increasingly aligned himself with opposition forces seeking to challenge the current political order. His detention has therefore attracted attention beyond legal circles, becoming a subject of wider political debate.
Beyond demanding his release, the ADC used the NEC meeting to approve several strategic decisions aimed at strengthening the party ahead of future elections. Delegates ratified the results of recently conducted primaries for State Houses of Assembly, National Assembly, governorship and presidential contests, with the exception of elections still facing appeals or unresolved disputes. Party leaders described the ratification as a significant step toward consolidating the party’s structures nationwide and ensuring internal stability.
The committee also approved a one year extension of the tenure of the party’s National Working Committee. According to the party, the decision was necessary to guarantee continuity in leadership and maintain momentum as preparations for future electoral contests intensify. The extension is expected to provide party officials with additional time to strengthen grassroots mobilization and coordinate political activities across the federation.
In another major development, the NEC approved the establishment of caretaker committees at zonal, state, local government and ward levels. These committees will oversee party administration and organizational activities for a period of twelve months. ADC leaders said the initiative is part of a broader strategy to deepen the party’s presence across Nigeria and position it as a stronger alternative platform ahead of the next election cycle.
The latest declaration on El-Rufai follows a series of previous statements by the party criticizing his detention. In recent weeks, ADC officials accused anti corruption authorities of denying senior party leaders access to the former governor while in custody. The party alleged that attempts by prominent members, including former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, to visit El-Rufai were unsuccessful despite prior communication with relevant authorities.
ADC officials have repeatedly maintained that transparency and respect for constitutional rights should guide all legal proceedings involving political figures. The party argues that prolonged detention and restrictions on access to legal counsel, family members and political associates risk undermining public confidence in democratic institutions.
Political analysts believe the party’s decision to formally declare El-Rufai a prisoner of conscience is likely to intensify national discussions surrounding the relationship between politics, law enforcement and democratic governance. Supporters of the former governor continue to demand his release, while authorities insist that legal processes must proceed without interference.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace, the controversy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention appears set to remain a significant issue within Nigeria’s political landscape. With the ADC now elevating the matter to a central campaign issue, the debate over justice, due process and political freedom is expected to remain firmly in the national spotlight in the months ahead.
