The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing growing concerns following the detention of two of its key leaders, former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. Party insiders say the arrests could disrupt ongoing party activities and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Malami, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is standing trial for alleged money laundering involving N8.7 billion. He and his family members were arraigned on multiple counts related to conspiracy, concealment, and laundering of illicit funds. In January 2026, Malami was re-arrested by security operatives immediately after being released on bail and was later charged with additional terrorism and firearms offences.
El-Rufai is under investigation by several agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS). The former governor faces charges for allegedly intercepting communications of the National Security Adviser. He was detained multiple times in quick succession and remains in custody.
ADC leaders say the detentions have unsettled members and affected coalition-building efforts. The party claims the government is targeting opposition figures to intimidate supporters and discourage political alignment with the ADC. Kingsley Ogga, Kogi State Chairman of the party, warned that the absence of Malami and El-Rufai could weaken party structures and dissuade potential members from publicly supporting the opposition.
The party also cited instances of former politicians, including ex-Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam, withdrawing from coalition efforts after alleged threats of investigation by anti-graft agencies. ADC officials emphasized that El-Rufai is a crucial voice for the party and that his political influence cannot be easily replaced.
ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, accused the administration of using legal proceedings as a means of political pressure and alleged that the focus of charges against Malami had shifted from corruption to terrorism funding. He warned that ongoing intimidation of opposition figures poses a threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Despite the concerns, the party remains resolute, with the Kebbi State Chairman, Bala Sufiyanu, asserting that Malami’s legal challenges will not weaken the ADC’s resolve to contest the 2027 elections and defeat the ruling party.
In response, the APC dismissed the allegations of political persecution. Saleh Zazzaga, Chairman of the APC North-Central Forum, stated that the probes are purely accountability measures and that no individual is above the law, regardless of party affiliation. He rejected claims that the ruling party is intimidated by the ADC and insisted that ongoing investigations relate to actions taken by Malami and El-Rufai while in office.
