Tensions Rise as Sultan Queries El-Rufai Detention, U.S. Military Role

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to either formally charge former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai in court or release him, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law and due process.

According to reports from multiple sources, the monarch questioned the continued detention or investigation of El-Rufai without clear legal action, warning that such a situation could undermine public trust in Nigeria’s justice system. He emphasized that no individual should be held indefinitely without trial, regardless of political differences.

The Sultan also raised concerns over the reported presence of United States military personnel in Nigeria, describing the development as sensitive and requiring transparency. He urged the federal government to clearly explain the terms and purpose of any foreign military collaboration to Nigerians.

His remarks come amid growing public debate following confirmation that a small team of U.S. troops has been deployed to Nigeria as part of expanded security cooperation aimed at tackling insurgency and terrorism.

While Nigerian and U.S. officials have described the deployment as a strategic partnership to strengthen counterterrorism efforts, critics and stakeholders have continued to question the implications for Nigeria’s sovereignty and national security.

The Sultan called for caution, urging the government to prioritise national interest, accountability, and constitutional processes in both domestic political matters and international military engagements.