I Was Moved to Tears by El-Rufai’s Wife — Peter Obi

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has urged authorities to ensure fairness and respect for the rule of law in the ongoing prosecution of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

Obi made the appeal on Wednesday after watching a viral video in which El-Rufai’s wife, Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, passionately appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure her husband enjoys his constitutional rights while standing trial.

In a statement issued by the spokesman of the Peter Obi Media Reach, POMR, Idris Zekeri, Obi said the emotional appeal deeply affected him and prompted reflection on the state of justice and democracy in Nigeria.

The former Anambra State governor, who is currently attending an event in the United States, said the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s case should remind Nigerians of the importance of protecting the rights of every citizen regardless of political affiliation or personal differences.

According to Obi, allegations against any individual should be resolved through a transparent judicial process, stressing that every accused person deserves fair treatment until proven guilty by a competent court.

He maintained that bail conditions should not become a form of punishment before trial and called on relevant authorities to ensure that constitutional safeguards are fully respected throughout the legal proceedings.

Obi further warned that any perception of selective justice could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions and undermine national unity.

He stressed that agencies responsible for law enforcement must discharge their responsibilities professionally, impartially and strictly in line with the provisions of the law.

The former governor also noted that democracy can only flourish where institutions protect the rights and dignity of all citizens without discrimination.

He said the country must continue to strengthen its justice system by ensuring transparency, accountability and equal treatment before the law.

Obi expressed hope that Nigeria would remain committed to democratic values by guaranteeing justice for every citizen, irrespective of status or political leaning.

His remarks come amid increasing public attention on El-Rufai’s detention, with family members, political associates and opposition figures calling for improved access to medical care, legal counsel and relatives while the former governor continues to face prosecution.

Obi concluded that justice must always be guided by fairness, compassion and the rule of law, adding that these principles remain essential to building a united and democratic Nigeria.