Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has alleged that former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami once appealed to him and his legal team for assistance in securing bail while he was detained at the Kuje Correctional Centre. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Sowore made the claim during a video address to journalists, where he also criticised former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai over reports that he allegedly suffered a nosebleed while in custody.
According to Sowore, Malami had “sent people” to him after realising that he and his lawyers were among the most credible individuals capable of facilitating his release at the time.
He further suggested that El-Rufai might also be attempting to gain public sympathy amid his current legal challenges, drawing parallels between the situations.
Questioning the reported health concerns, Sowore asked when the alleged nosebleed began, implying that the timing raised doubts.
“I’m surprised that his nose is now bleeding at the ICPC. When did it start bleeding? Did it bleed when he was governor?” he said.
Sowore also claimed that El-Rufai is being held by individuals within his own political circle, describing the situation as part of a familiar political strategy often seen in Nigeria.
His comments come amid ongoing controversy surrounding El-Rufai’s detention and public debate about his health condition, access to family members, and legal representation.
Authorities have yet to provide full clarification regarding the circumstances of the former governor’s custody, while discussions continue across political and civil society spaces.