The Kaduna State Police Command has issued a summons to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, along with several prominent leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), for questioning over serious allegations of criminal conspiracy, incitement of public disturbance, mischief, and causing grievous hurt. This development, announced on September 4, 2025, has intensified political tensions in Kaduna and across Nigeria, raising questions about the state of opposition politics, democratic freedoms, and the role of security agencies in managing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Summons: Details and Context
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Uzainu Abdullahi, who heads the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Kaduna State Police Command, El-Rufai and six other ADC leaders were directed to appear before the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on September 8, 2025. The other summoned individuals include Bashir Sa’idu, Jafaru Sani, Ubaidullah Mohammed (alias “30”), Nasiru Maikano, Aminu Abita, and Ahmed Rufa’i Hussaini (alias “Mikiya”). The letter, titled Investigation Activities: Case of Criminal Conspiracy, Inciting Disturbance of Public Peace, Mischief and Causing Grievous Hurt, did not disclose specific details of the complaints but emphasized that the summons was part of an ongoing investigation into allegations raised by unnamed complainants.
The summons follows a violent incident on August 30, 2025, during the inauguration of the ADC’s Coalition Transition Committee in Kaduna. According to reports, political thugs stormed the event, attacking ADC members, injuring several individuals, and causing significant property damage. Witnesses alleged that security agencies, including the police, failed to intervene effectively and, in some cases, appeared complicit in allowing the attackers to operate unchecked. The ADC leadership accused the authorities of politically motivated inaction, claiming that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was attempting to suppress opposition activities in the state.
Background: Political Tensions in Kaduna
Kaduna State, located in Nigeria’s northwest, is a political hotspot known for its complex ethnic, religious, and political dynamics. As a key battleground state, it has been a focal point for political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections. Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, served as Kaduna’s governor from 2015 to 2023 under the APC banner. His tenure was marked by ambitious infrastructure projects, urban renewal initiatives, and controversial policies that polarized the state’s population. While supporters praised his reforms, critics accused him of divisive governance, particularly regarding his handling of ethno-religious tensions and security challenges.
In recent years, El-Rufai’s relationship with the APC leadership has deteriorated, particularly following his exclusion from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet in 2023, reportedly due to security concerns raised by intelligence agencies. This fallout prompted speculation that El-Rufai was exploring alternative political platforms, including the ADC, to maintain his influence and challenge the APC’s dominance in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC, traditionally a minor party, has gained attention as a potential vehicle for opposition figures dissatisfied with the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The formation of the ADC’s Coalition Transition Committee, reportedly backed by El-Rufai and other defectors from major parties, was seen as an attempt to consolidate opposition forces ahead of 2027.
The violent disruption of the ADC event on August 30 has been interpreted by many as a deliberate attempt to intimidate opposition leaders. The Kaduna State government, led by APC Governor Uba Sani, accused El-Rufai of orchestrating “provocative actions” and “inflammatory remarks” aimed at destabilizing the state. In a statement by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Suleiman Shuaibu, the government vowed not to allow El-Rufai to “plunge Kaduna into violence, division, and insecurity.” The statement further alleged that the ADC meeting was an “illegal and chaotic” gathering that ended in violence, part of a calculated effort to incite unrest following the APC’s victory in the August 16, 2025, by-elections.
The ADC’s Response and Allegations of Political Persecution
The ADC has vehemently denied the government’s accusations, describing the summons as a politically motivated attempt to silence opposition voices. Jafaru Sani, the ADC North-West Vice Chairman and one of the summoned leaders, confirmed that many of the invited individuals learned of the police action through social media rather than official channels, raising questions about the transparency of the process. Sani declined to comment further, but other ADC leaders were more vocal in their condemnation.
During an emergency press conference held at El-Rufai’s Kaduna residence, Malam Lawal Batagarawa, a former Minister of State for Defence, described the violence at the ADC event as “a dangerous slide into dictatorship.” Flanked by El-Rufai and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, Batagarawa warned that democracy in Nigeria was under threat if opposition figures continued to face harassment. He accused security agencies of complicity in the attack, alleging that police operatives stationed at the venue failed to intervene and, in some instances, aided the thugs. The ADC leadership called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violence, arguing that the sealing of their Kaduna office by the police was an attempt to suppress their activities.
The ADC’s Kaduna chapter further distanced itself from the controversial inauguration, with State Publicity Secretary Engr. Musa Idris issuing a statement rejecting the event as “illegitimate.” The party claimed that El-Rufai was not a registered member and lacked the authority to organize activities under the ADC’s name. According to Elder Patrick Ambut, the state chairman, El-Rufai had promised to regularize his membership after the August by-elections but failed to do so, instead creating unauthorized positions within the party. This internal discord highlights the challenges of integrating high-profile figures like El-Rufai into a smaller party like the ADC, raising questions about leadership and cohesion within the opposition.
Police Investigation and Allegations of Bias
The Kaduna State Police Command has defended its actions, stating that the investigation is part of its mandate to maintain peace and order. According to DSP Mansir Hassan, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, the August 30 gathering was held without prior notification to security agencies, creating a “fertile ground” for thugs to unleash violence. Preliminary findings suggest that “political gangsters and thugs” allegedly loyal to El-Rufai were involved in firing gunshots during the clash, disrupting public peace. The police have warned that anyone found culpable, regardless of status, will face the full weight of the law.
However, the police’s handling of the situation has drawn criticism. The ADC’s claim that security operatives failed to intervene during the attack has fueled allegations of bias, with some analysts suggesting that the police are acting on behalf of the APC-led state government to target opposition figures. The sealing of the ADC’s Kaduna office and the deployment of patrol vans to block access have been cited as evidence of a broader campaign to stifle dissent. Critics argue that the summons of El-Rufai and other ADC leaders is a strategic move to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections, a period when political alignments are expected to intensify.
The police have also issued a broader warning to hotels, event centers, and other venues, cautioning them against hosting political gatherings without prior notification. This measure, according to DSP Hassan, is intended to prevent thugs from hijacking events and causing mayhem. The Command has suspended all unauthorized political gatherings until proper security arrangements are in place, a decision that has sparked debate about the balance between public safety and democratic freedoms.
El-Rufai’s Political Trajectory and the 2027 Elections
Nasir El-Rufai’s involvement in the ADC controversy marks a significant chapter in his storied political career. A seasoned administrator and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (2003–2007), El-Rufai has been a polarizing figure in Nigerian politics. His tenure as Kaduna’s governor was characterized by bold reforms, including the controversial dismissal of thousands of teachers deemed unqualified and the demolition of illegal structures in Kaduna’s urban areas. These policies earned him both admiration and enmity, with critics accusing him of authoritarian tendencies and insensitivity to local dynamics.
El-Rufai’s rumored shift to the ADC reflects a broader trend of political realignment in Nigeria, as prominent figures seek new platforms to challenge the dominance of the APC and PDP. The ADC, though historically a minor player, has attracted attention as a potential “third force” in Nigerian politics, particularly with the involvement of figures like El-Rufai and Tambuwal. The Coalition Transition Committee, which was the target of the August 30 attack, was reportedly formed to unify defectors from the APC, PDP, Social Democratic Party (SDP), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) under the ADC banner. This move has alarmed the APC, which dismissed the ADC as a “vehicle with old drivers and faulty engines” that poses no threat to its dominance.
The APC’s response, articulated by Nasarawa State Chairman Aliyu Bello and Minister of State for Education Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmed, reflects confidence in President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” Bello credited Tinubu’s reforms with stabilizing the economy, while Ahmed declared that there would be “no vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027.” Umar Tanko Yakasai, Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group, went further, describing the opposition coalition as “a pack of dominoes” led by figures responsible for past economic mismanagement. These statements underscore the APC’s determination to maintain its grip on power, even as it faces growing opposition from within and outside its ranks.
Broader Implications: Democracy and Political Violence
The summons of El-Rufai and the ADC leaders raises critical questions about the state of democracy in Nigeria. The use of security agencies to investigate opposition figures has sparked concerns about the politicization of law enforcement, a recurring issue in Nigeria’s political history. Critics argue that the allegations of conspiracy and incitement are vague and could be used to suppress dissent, particularly as the 2027 elections approach. The violent disruption of the ADC event and the subsequent sealing of its office are seen by some as part of a broader strategy to intimidate opposition parties and limit their ability to organize.
Political violence remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with incidents often tied to electoral cycles. The August 30 attack on the ADC event is reminiscent of past episodes where political thugs, allegedly backed by powerful interests, have disrupted rallies, meetings, and campaigns. The failure of security agencies to prevent or respond effectively to such incidents undermines public confidence in the state’s ability to protect democratic processes. The EEDC’s call for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack reflects a broader demand for accountability and justice.
The controversy also highlights the challenges facing opposition parties in Nigeria. The ADC’s internal divisions, as evidenced by its rejection of El-Rufai’s alleged inauguration, underscore the difficulties of building a cohesive opposition front. Smaller parties like the ADC often struggle to compete with the financial and organizational might of the APC and PDP, making them vulnerable to internal strife and external pressures. The involvement of high-profile figures like El-Rufai could provide a boost but also risks creating power struggles within the party.
Historical Context: Political Summons and Investigations in Nigeria
The summoning of political figures for questioning is not a new phenomenon in Nigeria. In recent years, several prominent individuals have faced similar actions, often tied to allegations of incitement, conspiracy, or other offenses. For example, in August 2025, the Nigeria Police Force summoned Omoyele Sowore, publisher of SaharaReporters, over allegations of forgery and inciting public disturbance. Similarly, Femi Fani-Kayode, a former minister, was invited for questioning over charges of criminal conspiracy, defamation, and incitement. The National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, also faced a police summons over alleged terrorism financing and cybercrime.
These cases suggest a pattern of using legal and security mechanisms to target critics and opposition figures, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic freedoms. While the police have a duty to investigate allegations of criminal activity, the lack of transparency and specificity in many of these cases fuels suspicions of political motives. The Kaduna summons, occurring in the context of heightened political tensions, fits into this broader trend and underscores the need for reforms to ensure the independence and impartiality of security agencies.
Recommendations for Stakeholders
Addressing the issues raised by the Kaduna summons requires a multifaceted approach involving the government, security agencies, political parties, and civil society. Below are key recommendations:
Strengthen Security Agency Independence: The Nigeria Police Force must operate free from political interference to maintain public trust. Clear guidelines should be established to ensure that investigations are transparent, evidence-based, and not used to target opposition figures.
Enhance Accountability for Political Violence: Those responsible for the August 30 attack must be identified and prosecuted, regardless of their affiliations. The police should conduct thorough and impartial investigations to restore confidence in their ability to maintain law and order.
Promote Dialogue Among Political Actors: The Kaduna State government, opposition parties, and civil society should engage in dialogue to reduce tensions and prevent further violence. Political differences should be resolved through democratic processes rather than intimidation or force.
Protect Democratic Freedoms: The right to assemble and organize politically must be upheld. Security agencies should facilitate, rather than obstruct, peaceful political activities, provided they comply with legal requirements.
Strengthen Opposition Cohesion: The ADC and other opposition parties should address internal divisions and develop clear strategies to challenge the ruling party. This includes ensuring transparent leadership structures and inclusive decision-making processes.
Increase Public Awareness: Civil society organizations and the media should educate the public about their democratic rights and the importance of holding political actors accountable. Public pressure can help deter the misuse of state institutions for political purposes.
Conclusion: Navigating Nigeria’s Political Future
The summons of Nasir El-Rufai and ADC leaders by the Kaduna State Police Command is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. It highlights the challenges of opposition politics in a country where power struggles are often accompanied by violence and intimidation. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the handling of this case will have significant implications for democratic freedoms, the rule of law, and the ability of opposition parties to operate without fear of repression.
The allegations against El-Rufai and the ADC leaders must be investigated transparently and impartially, with due regard for their rights and the principles of justice. At the same time, the broader issues of political violence and the politicization of security agencies must be addressed to ensure a level playing field for all political actors. By fostering dialogue, accountability, and respect for democratic norms, Nigeria can navigate these challenges and strengthen its democratic institutions for the benefit of all citizens.