Women coalition demands end to ‘Political witch-hunt’ against El-Rufai, Aides

A coalition of over 100 women groups and associations in Kaduna State has called for an end to “political witch-hunt” against former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, his former Chief of Staff, Hon. Bashir Saidu, and other officials of his administration. The women operating under the umbrella of Coalition of Women Societies and […]

A coalition of over 100 women groups and associations in Kaduna State has called for an end to “political witch-hunt” against former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, his former Chief of Staff, Hon. Bashir Saidu, and other officials of his administration.
The women operating under the umbrella of Coalition of Women Societies and Associations in Kaduna State, made the demand in a statement signed by its Convener, Hon. Hafsat Baba and Hajiya Laila Gambo Umaru.
The women groups expressed concern over what they claimed was a sustained campaign of political persecution, intimidation and negative profiling directed at El-Rufai and his associates.
According to the statement, political disagreements in a democratic society should not be allowed to degenerate into actions that undermine the constitutional rights and personal liberties of citizens.
“We are deeply concerned by developments that appear aimed at intimidating and silencing prominent political figures who have contributed significantly to governance and democratic development,” the coalition stated.
The group noted that El-Rufai remains a notable figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, citing his role as a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his contributions to the party’s growth and successes.

 

The coalition also recalled his involvement in the campaign that led to the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023, describing him as one of the leading figures who supported APC.

 

Beyond partisan politics, the women groups said El-Rufai’s administration in Kaduna State was remembered for major reforms and infrastructure projects, including investments in roads, transportation, water supply and public sector restructuring.

 

They argued that it was troubling that a former governor and his associates, whom they said contributed to governance and public service, were allegedly being subjected to what they termed a coordinated effort to tarnish their reputations.

 

While affirming that no individual is above the law, the coalition maintained that all allegations against public officials must be handled through lawful, transparent and constitutionally recognised procedures.

 

The women further called for the immediate release of any of the affected individuals if they were being detained or restricted in a manner inconsistent with the law.

 

The coalition also urged security agencies, anti-corruption bodies and other public institutions to remain professional, impartial and free from political influence in carrying out their statutory responsibilities.

 

They said democracy can only flourish where justice, fairness and the rule of law prevail, warning that the selective application of state power could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.

 

They also called on civil society organisations, the media and democratic institutions to remain vigilant in defending constitutional governance and fundamental human rights.