A coalition of civil society organisations operating as Kaduna Voices United has unveiled plans to organise mass protests across Kaduna State, demanding the extended detention of former governor Nasir El-Rufai and a broader investigation into his administration over alleged human rights abuses.
The group said the demonstrations are intended to press for accountability over what it characterised as years of alleged repression of dissent and disregard for court authority during El-Rufai’s time in office.
In a statement issued by its coordinator, Nura Basiru, Kaduna Voices United announced the creation of what it described as a “powerful citizens’ front” focused on seeking justice for individuals said to have suffered abuses under the former governor’s leadership.
According to the coalition, protests will be held simultaneously at major centres across the state, with activities expected to climax in a large rally in the state capital.
Basiru said: “The purpose of these protests is to demand the continued detention of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai and to advocate for the extension of ongoing investigations into his legacy. This legacy is marred by the suppression of dissent, and a blatant disregard for judicial authority.
“As concerned citizens and advocates for human rights, we believe that the actions and decisions made during Nasir El-Rufai’s administration have had catastrophic consequences for our communities.
“The time has come to hold him accountable for these injustices. Our movement aims to shed light on the serious human rights violations that cannot be overlooked.”
The coalition also drew attention to the unresolved disappearance of Kaduna-based activist Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who has remained unaccounted for since his abduction in August 2019.
He added, “Perhaps one of the most haunting stories to emerge from this dark chapter in Kaduna’s history is the unresolved disappearance of activist Abubakar Idris, known as “Dadiyata.” Since his abduction in August 2019, there has been little to no accountability or information regarding his fate.
“The impunity surrounding his case reflects the broader culture of oppression and enforced disappearances that continues to terrorize activists across Nigeria. It is unacceptable that individuals advocating for their rights can simply vanish without consequence.
“The Kaduna Voices United believe that holding individuals in power accountable is essential to good governance and the protection of human rights…
“The continued detention of Nasir El-Rufai is necessary not for vengeance, but as a clear message that human rights violations will not be tolerated. It is crucial that we extend our investigations to highlight the systemic issues within the executive that allowed such violations to take place, ensuring that history does not repeat itself.
“We invite all citizens of Kaduna State, civil society organizations, and human rights advocates to join us in rallying against these injustices. Our scheduled protests will serve as a platform not only for the grievances against El-Rufai’s administration but also as a broader movement against human rights abuses in our state and country. Together, we can create an unwavering demand for truth, accountability, and justice.”
Kaduna Voices United said its mobilisation forms part of a wider campaign against alleged authoritarian practices and rights violations, stressing that addressing past misconduct is critical to protecting citizens’ freedoms.
“We encourage participants to come together peacefully, demanding justice for victims and urging the current administration to pursue accountability for the past administration’s actions.
“Now, more than ever, our state needs a collective voice willing to challenge atrocious actions against humanity. History has shown us that silence in the face of injustice enables it to persist; therefore, we must rise and advocate for change.
“The formation of the Kaduna Voices United represents not just a demand for accountability from one individual, but a unified front pledging to safeguard the rights of all citizens against the tide of autocracy. “
