By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

The Coalition of Northern Stakeholders has raised concerns, alerting the public over recent developments in the trial of Nasiru Ahmad El-rufa’i.

In a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday in Kaduna, the group said that they are closely following how the case involving the former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-rufa’i is being handled by the ICPC and the judiciary.

Signatories to the statement were; Isma’il Abba Aliyu (Dan Saran Gumel) a Retired Assistant Controller General Nigeria Immigration Service, Suleiman Isyaku (walin MAKAMA Isawa) a Retired Assistant Controller Nigeria Correctional Service,  Prof Abdullahi Musa Ashafa and Abdullahi Abubakar Gwandu.

Other were; Dr Abdulmajid Muhammad Umar Esq, Malam Ibrahim Adam Kasuwar Bacci, Alhaji Lawal Mohammed Ya’u mai karfi, Mr Stephen Sunday and Edekobi.

They coalition stressed that they are not opposed legal scrutiny of El-rufa’i, provided it is free from political witch-hunt and conducted within the bounds of the law.

According to the coalition, allegations of corruption must be addressed strictly under extant laws rather than through what it described as whimsical partisanship.

The stakeholders emphasised that due process, fairness, and constitutional rights must be upheld at all times in handling the matter.

They noted that El-rufa’i honoured invitations from anti-graft agencies, demonstrating respect for constituted authority and the rule of law.

Despite this cooperation, the coalition expressed concern that he remains in prolonged detention without benefiting from bail.

The group described the situation as troubling, especially given his non-compulsive compliance with investigative procedures.

It also raised concerns about the judicial process following the Kaduna State High Court proceedings held on April 21, 2026.

The matter was adjourned to June 2026, a delay the coalition said raises questions about the pace and fairness of the trial.

While acknowledging that legal processes take time, the group insisted justice must be timely and transparent.

Attention was also drawn to possible political implications ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition questioned whether the continued detention could be perceived as having political undertones affecting democratic participation.

It posed direct questions to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding El-Rufai’s past political support and current situation.

The group asked whether Nigerians should be concerned about perceptions of political motivation behind the detention.

It clarified that these questions were not accusations but a call for reassurance in the interest of democratic integrity.

The coalition called on local and international observers to monitor the proceedings closely for fairness and transparency.

It also expressed concern over reported actions by the Nigeria Police Force during court appearances.

These include alleged road blockades, movement restrictions, and harassment of citizens and supporters.

The group urged security agencies to respect constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression while maintaining order.

Reiterating its position, the coalition said it does not seek immunity for El-Rufai from prosecution.

Instead, it called for strict adherence to due process and enforcement of bail rights in accordance with the law.

They urged stakeholders to ensure respect for court rulings, protection of citizens’ rights, and a fair, timely trial.

The coalition maintained that justice must prevail in a way that strengthens public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.