Popular Nigerian businessman, Isaac Fayose, has alleged that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, may soon face charges over an alleged N2.3 billion corruption case.
The claim comes amid controversy surrounding an attempted arrest of the former governor by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Thursday.
In an interview with BBC Pidgin, El-Rufai alleged that the DSS operation was carried out at the instance of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which he claimed contracted the secret police to arrest him.
The development has sparked reactions from opposition figures and concerned citizens, some of whom accuse the administration of President Bola Tinubu of targeting political opponents.
Reacting in a video shared on his X account on Friday, Fayose criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that members of the opposition are being persecuted while those aligned with the government are shielded.
He said, “In Nigeria, when you are in opposition, you are corrupt but when you are in APC, you are a saint. If you doubt me, think about this. El-Rufai quit the party for opposition and now, they are about to charge him N2.3 billion for corruption.”
Fayose further referenced other political figures, alleging selective treatment in anti-corruption actions. He cited former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, contrasting their situations with that of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, whom he suggested enjoys favourable treatment due to his support for the current administration.
Malami left and he was charged for corruption and now illegal arms dealing. Kwankwaso said he was not going to join them and now he is tagged as a bandit but Wike that has everything including opening a radio station and campaign office for Tinubu, he is a saint,” he added.
