Atiku Demands Release or Trial of Detained Kaduna Cleric

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged authorities to immediately release Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Khalifa Zaria or arraign him in court, condemning his continued detention without trial as unconstitutional.

The cleric has reportedly been in custody since December 2025 over alleged links to a coup plot but has yet to be formally charged. In a statement issued Wednesday by his media office, Atiku described the situation as a grave breach of constitutional rights and due process.

He noted that an existing order from the Federal High Court mandating the cleric’s appearance in court has allegedly not been complied with, warning that such disregard undermines the rule of law and judicial authority.

According to Atiku, no democratic system can function effectively where security agencies operate above the law or treat citizens’ rights as optional. He further raised concerns over reports that the cleric has been denied access to family members, legal representation, and proper medical attention.

The former Vice President cautioned that allowing such practices to persist could erode Nigeria’s democratic principles. He called on relevant authorities to act swiftly by either releasing the cleric or charging him in a competent court, stressing that any delay amounts to unlawful detention and abuse of power.

Atiku’s remarks add to growing public concern over transparency and adherence to legal procedures in the handling of sensitive detentions across the country.