12/06/2026
THE SPIRIT OF JUNE 12: JUSTICE, LIBERTY AND THE INCARCERATION OF MALLAM NASIR EL-RUFA’I
June 12 is more than a date. It is a symbol of sacrifice, courage, resistance against injustice, and the triumph of the democratic will of the Nigerian people.
On this Democracy Day, as Nigerians commemorate the heroes and heroines who stood firm against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, we are compelled to reflect on the state of our democracy and the extent to which the principles for which they fought are being upheld today.
Democracy is not merely about conducting elections. It is about the supremacy of the rule of law, the protection of fundamental rights, the independence of institutions, and the guarantee that every citizen shall be treated fairly and justly under the law.
It is therefore deeply troubling that Mallam Nasiru El-Rufa’i remains in detention since February 16, 2026, despite having been granted bail in separate legal proceedings. More concerning is the perception that conditions attached to his freedom have become practically unattainable, thereby defeating the very essence of bail as a constitutional safeguard against arbitrary detention.
The Nigerian Constitution is unequivocal: every citizen is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law. This principle is not a favour bestowed by government; it is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution.
Mallam El-Rufa’i voluntarily honoured invitations extended to him and made himself available to lawful authorities. Yet today, he remains deprived of his liberty under circumstances that raise serious questions about the commitment of our democracy to fairness, justice, and due process.
Mallam’s place in Nigeria’s democratic journey is neither incidental nor insignificant. Since the dawn of the Fourth Republic in 1998, he has been among the prominent voices and actors who contributed to the rebuilding of democratic institutions after years of military rule.
As a young reform-minded technocrat, he participated in national efforts aimed at strengthening governance, promoting transparency, and advancing institutional reforms. Over the past twenty-eight years, he has served the nation in various capacities, leaving a visible imprint on public administration, policy development, democratic governance, and nation-building.
His contributions have transcended political offices and party interests. Whether as a public servant, minister, governor, political strategist, or public intellectual, Mallam El-Rufa’i has consistently engaged in national debates on good governance, accountability, federalism, economic reform, and democratic development.
He was among those who strongly advocated for constitutional order, electoral participation, and the peaceful transfer of power as essential pillars of Nigeria’s democracy. Even where his positions generated controversy or disagreement, few would dispute his enduring influence on the democratic evolution of modern Nigeria.
Indeed, history will record that he played a significant role in shaping major political developments that have defined the Fourth Republic. His support for democratic transitions and his advocacy for the rotation of political power in the interest of national cohesion demonstrated a commitment to principles he believed would strengthen the unity and stability of the federation. Mentoring young leaders to come out in good numbers, to give their contributions and brilliant insights to the growth and development of democracy.
Regardless of political affiliations or differences of opinion, no democrat should remain silent when constitutional principles appear endangered. The defence of liberty is not about personalities; it is about protecting the institutions and values that safeguard every Nigerian.
It is particularly ironic that a man who openly championed democratic transitions, advocated constitutional order, and played a notable role in political developments that shaped the current administration now finds himself in circumstances that many view as inconsistent with the democratic ideals he helped advance.
Today, as we celebrate Democracy Day, we must remind ourselves that democracy is tested not by how it treats its friends, but by how it treats its critics, opponents, and dissenting voices.
The true spirit of June 12 demands courage against injustice, fidelity to constitutionalism, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
As Nigerians honour the memory of those who sacrificed for democracy, we call on all relevant authorities to ensure that justice is not only done but is manifestly seen to be done. We urge strict adherence to constitutional provisions, respect for judicial processes, and protection of the rights and liberties guaranteed to every citizen.
The lesson of June 12 is timeless: no nation can attain greatness where freedom is compromised, where justice is delayed, or where the rule of law is subordinated to political expediency.
It is therefore fitting, on a day dedicated to celebrating the heroes and defenders of democracy, that Nigerians reflect upon the contributions of a man who has devoted a substantial part of his adult life to the democratic project and whose liberty remains a matter of legitimate public concern.
May the sacrifices of our democratic heroes continue to inspire us toward a Nigeria where liberty is protected, justice is impartial, and democracy remains the enduring expression of the people’s sovereign will.
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long Live Constitutional Democracy.
Happy Democracy Day.
Hayatuddeen Lawal Makarfi
12th June, 2026
