Ensure Rule Of Law In Continued Detention Of El-Rufai, Sharia Council Urges Govt

The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has called on relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law in the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai.

In a statement issued by the Council Secretary General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, it expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s continued detention and what it described as the apparent difficulty in meeting his bail conditions.

The SCSN stressed that El-Rufai, like every Nigerian, was entitled to his fundamental rights and remained presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.

According to the Council, Nigeria operates under a constitutional democracy in which the rights and liberties of citizens must be respected regardless of their status, political affiliation or personal disposition.

It said due process, fair hearing and lawful detention were fundamental pillars of justice that must be upheld at all times, adding that it did not support or condone criminality in any form.

The Council, however, warned that the pursuit of justice must itself be just, stressing that actions perceived as arbitrary, politically motivated or inconsistent with the rule of law could undermine public confidence in state institutions and weaken democratic governance.

It urged the relevant authorities to operate strictly within the confines of the Constitution and extant laws, while refraining from actions that could be perceived as politically motivated persecution, and called for fairness, transparency and due process in the matter.

The SCSN further said Nigeria’s unity and long-term stability depended on the credibility of its institutions and the trust of citizens, insisting that justice must not only be done but must be manifestly seen to be done. It also called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint and responsibility and act in accordance with the law.