2027: Presidency not about high jump but vision - Dele Momodu replies Makinde

Veteran journalist Dele Momodu has criticized the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that it is due to his political influence and potential threat to those in authority. In an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today, Momodu said El-Rufai, despite his flaws, remains one of the most astute politicians from Northern Nigeria.

The reason for his confinement, Momodu argued, is because El-Rufai is a "lion" who could pose a danger if released. "The longer they keep him, the worse the situation," he warned. Momodu suggested that authorities could have granted El-Rufai bail, allowing him to continue his legal proceedings from his home. He expressed worry over the lack of support from some of El-Rufai's political allies, including current Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, who is believed to have been a protege of El-Rufai.

"It scares me about Nigerian politics that people, even Uba Sani, who was supposed to be a protege, is not able to fight for him because they believe it will be too dangerous if he is outside," Momodu lamented. He called on all Nigerians, particularly those with a sense of duty, to speak out against El-Rufai's continued detention.

"All men and women of conscience should speak up and say Mallam Nasir El-Rufai should not be caged. But if they don't listen, a caged lion is still very dangerous," Momodu concluded.