Group plans mass protest in Kaduna, demands probe of El-Rufai
A civil society coalition under the auspices of Kaduna Voices United has announced plans to stage mass protests across Kaduna State, calling for the continued detention of former Kaduna State
A civil society coalition under the auspices of Kaduna Voices United has announced plans to stage mass protests across Kaduna State, calling for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and the expansion of investigations into his administration over alleged human rights violations.
The group said the planned demonstrations aim to demand accountability for what it described as years of suppression of dissent, extrajudicial killings, and disregard for judicial authority during El-Rufai’s tenure in office.
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Nura Basiru, Kaduna Voices United declared the formation of a “powerful citizens’ front” committed to pursuing justice for victims of alleged abuses recorded during the former governor’s administration.
According to the group, the protests will take place simultaneously across major locations in Kaduna State and will culminate in a central demonstration 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, extrajudicial killings, 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 most prominent incident of state-sanctioned violence during El-Rufai's tenure was the Zaria Shiite Massacre in December 2015. Government forces clashed with members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), led by Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, leading to the death of hundreds.”
“According to the International Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Army exhibited excessive use of force, which violated the fundamental rights of peaceful citizens (International Human Rights Commission, 2016). This chilling attack raises questions about the state’s accountability for protecting its citizens rather than perpetrating violence against them.
“Numerous reports have accused El-Rufai's administration of employing the Department of State Services (DSS) to suppress protests with excessive force and intimidation.” Activists and ordinary citizens have suffered brutal crackdowns, leading to numerous extrajudicial killings.
“The Nigerian-based organization Human Rights Watch condemned the actions of the security agencies during this period, emphasizing that civilians engaged in peaceful protests should not be subjected to violence (Human Rights Watch, 2019). We stand firm in our demand for justice for these victims and their families.”
The group further highlighted the unresolved disappearance of Kaduna-based activist Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who has remained missing 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 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.
“Kaduna Voices United believes that holding individuals in power accountable is essential to good governance and the protection of human rights. The profound detriment to the lives of ordinary citizens during El-Rufai's administration calls for a thorough investigation into his legacy. Society must confront those who repeatedly violate the rights of the people.
“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. We must 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 maintained that its campaign represents a broader movement against human rights violations and authoritarian tendencies, insisting that confronting past abuses is necessary to safeguard citizens’ rights.
“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.
“As we prepare for these protests, let us remember the victims of extrajudicial killings, the families of the disappeared, and all those who have been silenced throughout El-Rufai's reign. Let us stand together, demanding not only justice for those lost, but also a brighter future for Kaduna State and Nigeria.”
