Arewa Voters Forum Kicks Against Attempted Arrest of El-Rufai Warns Against Political ‘Witch-hunt’
The Arewa Voters Forum (AVF) has condemned what it described as an attempted arrest of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, by operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) at an airport, warning against actions that could be perceived as politically motivated.
In a press statement signed by its National Team Leader, Comrade Idris Ibrahim U/Gini, the forum expressed deep concern over the development, stressing that while it supports lawful investigations, enforcement actions must not create the impression of intimidation or selective justice.
“While we recognize and support the lawful mandate of all anti-corruption agencies to investigate any individual where credible allegations exist, we strongly reject any action that creates the perception of political intimidation or selective enforcement of the law,” the statement read.
The group maintained that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when justice is applied fairly, transparently and without bias, regardless of political affiliation. It cautioned that targeting opposition figures while those within the ruling establishment are perceived to be shielded from scrutiny could erode public confidence in state institutions.
The AVF clarified that it was not opposed to accountability or investigations into public office holders, but insisted that such processes must follow due process and respect the rights of citizens.
“We are not opposed to investigations or accountability. However, such processes must follow due process, respect the rights of all citizens, and avoid actions that may be interpreted as harassment or politically motivated,” the forum stated.
According to the group, selective justice undermines public trust and weakens the broader fight against corruption. It emphasized that the law must be seen to apply equally to all political actors, both in government and in opposition.
The forum called on relevant authorities to ensure that investigations are conducted professionally and transparently, apply the law uniformly irrespective of party affiliation, and avoid actions capable of heightening political tension or eroding democratic confidence.
It also urged its supporters and members of the public to remain peaceful and law-abiding while continuing to demand fairness, accountability and respect for democratic norms.
The AVF reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of democracy, the rule of law and equal justice for all Nigerians.
