Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for fair and transparent treatment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, warning that any perception of selective justice could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s institutions.
Obi’s intervention followed a viral video in which El-Rufai’s wife, Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, tearfully appealed over what she described as the treatment meted out to her husband.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday and titled, “A Wife’s Tears, A Nation’s Conscience: Let Justice Have a Heart,” Obi said the emotional video highlighted the need for justice to be administered without prejudice, regardless of the individual involved.
“I woke this morning in America and was deeply moved by an emotional viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, prompting deep reflection on our nation’s future,” the former Anambra State governor wrote.
He maintained that while allegations against any citizen should be investigated, the rule of law demands that every accused person be treated fairly and afforded due process.
“Regardless of the allegations against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial. In a democracy governed by the rule of law, institutions exist to protect every citizen’s rights, regardless of their background,” Obi stated.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate warned that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, arguing that perceived bias in the administration of justice could deepen divisions and weaken public trust in government institutions.
“We must resist any hint of selective justice that erodes public trust and threatens national unity. Those tasked with enforcing our laws must act professionally and strictly follow due process,” he said.
Obi urged law enforcement agencies and other state institutions to uphold the principles of fairness, justice and human dignity, insisting that respect for the rule of law remains indispensable to Nigeria’s democratic development.
“Let us strive for a Nigeria where the law is paramount, and where every citizen is guaranteed dignity and justice. This is the foundation of the New Nigeria we envisage,” he added.
