Nigeria’s civil rights watchdog, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, has issued a sharp warning to the Federal Government over what it describes as a growing pattern of unlawful detentions, demanding immediate action on the continued incarceration of Nasir El-Rufai and several detained military officers.
In a strongly worded statement, the group cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against repeating what it called “the El-Rufai treatment,” insisting that justice must not be selective or politically driven.
HURIWA raised concerns over El-Rufai’s continued detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, despite reports that he has not been formally arraigned in court.
The group argued that the repeated use of remand orders to keep him in custody—without filing substantive charges—undermines constitutional safeguards and due process.
“El-Rufai honoured an invitation, yet remains in detention months later without clarity on charges. This is unacceptable in a democracy,” the group said.
It further accused authorities of “forum shopping,” alleging that the anti-graft agency has moved between courts to secure successive detention orders rather than proceed to trial.
HURIWA linked the issue to Nigeria’s global image, noting that while President Tinubu engages international partners, concerns over human rights and due process persist at home.
The group stressed that democratic credibility is measured not by rhetoric, but by adherence to the rule of law.
In a pointed remark, the organisation acknowledged past allegations of high-handedness against El-Rufai during his tenure as governor but insisted that such claims cannot justify rights violations by the current administration.
“Justice must not be driven by revenge or precedent. Two wrongs do not make a right,” HURIWA declared.
Beyond El-Rufai, the group expressed deep concern over the continued detention of military officers accused of plotting against the state.
Describing treason as a grave offence requiring urgent judicial attention, HURIWA questioned why the suspects have not been arraigned if credible evidence exists.
It warned that holding them without trial—while reportedly restricting access to lawyers and family members—violates both Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights obligations.
HURIWA issued a clear ultimatum:
If there is evidence, prosecute. If not, release.
The group said prolonged detention without trial erodes public confidence in the justice system and weakens democratic institutions.
A System Under Scrutiny
Signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, the statement framed the situation as a defining moment for the administration.
“The credibility of any government rests on its commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law,” it said.
With tensions rising and scrutiny deepening, HURIWA’s message is blunt and unmistakable:
Respect the law—or risk undermining the very democracy you claim to defend.
“Try or Free Them”: HURIWA Slams Detentions, Warns Tinubu Over Rule of Law
