News
El-Rufai supporters hire U.S. lobbyists over former governor’s case
The El-RufaiEl-Rufai Support Group Association (ERSGA) says it has engaged a Washington-based advocacy firm, Vanguard Africa, to mount an international campaign over what it describes as alleged erosion of the rule of law and due process in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the group said the engagement will involve coordinated outreach to officials of the United States government, members of Congress, regulatory agencies, pro-democracy institutions and multilateral organisations.
The association said filings with the US Department of State indicated that Vanguard Africa would be responsible for planning and executing advocacy efforts on its behalf across key American political and diplomatic institutions.
ERSGA linked the campaign to the ongoing legal and political situation involving former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing him as a reform-minded statesman facing what it called “procedural irregularities” in his treatment by Nigerian authorities.
The group alleged that El-Rufai has been subjected to legal actions by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), including claims of prolonged court processes and contested bail hearings, which it insists raise concerns about fairness and judicial independence.
“The treatment of Governor El-Rufai is not an isolated incident — it is a symptom of a deeper crisis threatening Nigeria’s democratic institutions,” the group said.
ERSGA spokesperson, Mohammed Salihu, said the decision to take the matter to international platforms was driven by concerns over what they described as misuse of legal processes for political ends.
He argued that Nigeria’s democratic environment must remain open to scrutiny, especially as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections.
However, the ICPC has continued to pursue allegations against the former governor bordering on abuse of office, financial misconduct and fraud during his tenure as Kaduna State governor.
The development highlights growing political tensions and the increasing trend of Nigerian political actors seeking international advocacy support in high-profile legal and political disputes.
Follow Us on Google Discover
BUA targets 2 Million-Tonne imports With $85m Port expansion
Gov Adeleke inaugurates 10.4km road in Osun
Inter beat Man City on penalties in Maresca’s debut game
Veteran Journalist, former Oyo Governors’ aide Lekan Alabi passes away at 76
Lagos named host city for 2026 CAF awards
10-man Tottenham edge Chelsea 2-1 in Sydney friendly
Tinubu appoints ex-Plateau gov son, Yakubu Jang, as Special Assistant
2027: Tinubu’s primary, secondary school qualification missing from INEC documents as Obi, Atiku, others submit full credentials
You’re bitter because I thwarted your third-term agenda; I helped you to the presidency, history is stubborn,’ Atiku knocks Obasanjo
2027: INEC publishes Tinubu, Shettima’s credentials, personal particulars online (Photos)
Spain repatriates thousands of migrants to Morocco after Ceuta crossing
Army rescues kidnapped senior officer, civilian in Enugu
2027: For Tinubu to be defeated, Atiku, Obi must drop personal ambition, present one credible candidate – Lukman
Big blow for Turaki PDP faction as INEC rejects Jonathan’s presidential nomination
How Catholic priest Rev. Fr. Samuel Opeyemi was macheted to death in Kogi
ExxonMobil Nigeria opens recruitment for seven technical specialist and supervisor positions (How to apply)
Step-by-step guide to applying for the Zacch Adedeji Taxation and Fiscal Policy Fellowship
CJN stops use of ‘Barrister’ title in Supreme Court proceedings
2027: Tinubu’s primary, secondary school qualification missing from INEC documents as Obi, Atiku, others submit full credentials
2027: INEC publishes Tinubu, Shettima’s credentials, personal particulars online (Photos)
BREAKING: FG unveils plans to phase out power subsidies from 2027
2027: PDP faction submits Goodluck Jonathan’s name to INEC as presidential candidate
Choosing Atiku as Vice President is the greatest mistake of my life – Obasanjo
Gunmen attack Gateway Polytechnic in Ogun, abduct five students
INEC to publish personal details of 2027 Presidential, National Assembly candidates Tomorrow
DSS boss Ajayi hails NUJ award, reaffirms commitment to Press Freedom
You’re bitter because I thwarted your third-term agenda; I helped you to the presidency, history is stubborn,’ Atiku knocks Obasanjo
Your performance disappointing, comple your current tenure and step aside – Christian elders tell Tinubu
Big blow for Turaki PDP faction as INEC rejects Jonathan’s presidential nomination
