Timi Frank Calls for Immediate Release of El-Rufai, Tunde Ayeni

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called for the release of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai and businessman, Tunde Ayeni. In a statement issued on Sunday, Frank claimed he received information from what he described as a “reliable source within the security agencies” alleging that some […]

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called for the release of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai and businessman, Tunde Ayeni.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Frank claimed he received information from what he described as a “reliable source within the security agencies” alleging that some officials within government circles were plotting against El-Rufai.

Frank urged security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of the former governor, warning that any harm suffered by El-Rufai after release from detention would raise serious concerns.

The political activist also alleged that some judicial officers were participating in what he described as prolonged detention through restrictive bail conditions.

“There are also allegations that some judges have agreed to participate in the illegal detention of these individuals by ensuring they are either denied bail or subjected to excessively stringent bail conditions,” he added.

Frank argued that El-Rufai’s continued detention was politically motivated because of his influence and role during the 2023 presidential elections.

“They understand El-Rufai’s political relevance, influence, and what he knows, especially considering that he was part of the political structure that worked toward the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the last election,” he said.

While expressing support for anti-corruption efforts, Frank insisted that investigations and prosecutions must not be selective.

“I must state that I support the fight against corruption, but it must be fair, balanced, and free from political witch-hunts,” he stated.

“El-Rufai’s case is widely perceived as a witch-hunt, as he has remained incarcerated for over four months for allegations that are ordinarily bailable offences. Meanwhile, in other cases involving politically exposed persons, suspects reportedly walk in and out of the EFCC as a mere formality.”

Frank questioned why some former governors facing corruption allegations were allegedly treated differently.

“Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who was accused of massive financial misconduct allegedly running into trillions, is presently contesting elections freely for the position of Senator after aligning with the ruling party.

“Is El-Rufai the only former governor in Nigeria?

“What happened to the cases involving former governors such as Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Yahaya Bello, and Samuel Ortom, all of whom at different times faced allegations concerning public funds, yet continue to move freely, with some even receiving appointments?” he asked.

Frank further alleged that anti-corruption agencies were engaging in “selective prosecution and political intimidation” targeting both El-Rufai and Ayeni.

“For instance, Tunde Ayeni has been discharged by the courts in previous cases brought against him by the EFCC. There are concerns that he is being targeted because of perceived political affiliations and sympathy for the opposition,” he said.

“Tunde Ayeni is a businessman, not a politician. His experience appears to many as a witch-hunt designed to weaken him because of his perceived support for the opposition.

“Friends and business associates who have suddenly become close to government officials are behind his incarceration, which has now lasted for about 30 days.”

Frank urged the judiciary not to become an instrument for suppressing dissenting voices.

“Our judiciary must not allow itself to be used as an instrument of intimidation against those who hold differing political opinions,” he stated.

He warned that alleged abuse of state institutions could deepen public distrust in democratic governance and intensify concerns about political repression.