Sanusi Gives Reasons for El-Rufai’s Continued Detention

Former Kano Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has attributed the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai to what he described as stringent bail conditions imposed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

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Speaking with journalists after a public engagement, Sanusi said the requirements attached to El-Rufai’s bail had made it difficult for the former governor to regain his freedom despite ongoing legal proceedings.

According to him, authorities set conditions that are not easy to meet. 

He claimed that El-Rufai’s release was tied to guarantees from highly placed individuals, including a traditional ruler and a senior government official.

“My understanding is that the conditions attached to his bail are extremely demanding. 

"When such requirements are placed on an accused person, it naturally slows down the process of securing release,” Sanusi said.

The remarks came as supporters of the former Kaduna governor intensified efforts to draw international attention to his prosecution.

The El-Rufai Support Group Association (ERSGA) announced that it had partnered with Vanguard Africa, a Washington DC-based advocacy organisation, to spearhead global engagement on the matter.

Mohammed Salihu, the group’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, said the collaboration would focus on reaching foreign policymakers, democracy advocates, and other international stakeholders to present developments surrounding the case.

“We believe there is a need for broader international awareness regarding the legal proceedings involving El-Rufai. 

"Our objective is to ensure that key stakeholders are adequately informed,” Salihu said.

Meanwhile, Sanusi used the occasion to express wider concerns about challenges facing Northern Nigeria, arguing that the region is grappling with issues that extend beyond economic hardship.

He said the North’s traditional values and social identity were gradually being weakened, warning that the erosion of cultural heritage could have long-term consequences for the region.

“The North has faced poverty for decades, but our people have historically maintained dignity, patience and faith. 

"What worries many of us today is the gradual decline of those values that once defined our society,” Sanusi stated.

Furthermore, the former emir lamented what he described as a reduction in the region’s political influence, noting that Northerners were once widely viewed as capable of leading the country without significant resistance.

He argued that changing perceptions and growing divisions have altered the political landscape, making it increasingly difficult for the region to command the level of national acceptance it once enjoyed.

El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 19 over allegations of financial misconduct linked to his administration as Kaduna State governor between 2015 and 2023. 

"The anti-corruption agency later brought him before a Kaduna High Court on an amended nine-count charge involving alleged fraud and abuse of office.

The former governor has denied wrongdoing, while the legal proceedings continue before the court.