Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has criticised the arrest and prosecution of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing the situation as politically motivated.
Speaking in Kaduna at a stakeholders’ meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi stressed that the rule of law must be upheld and that anyone accused of wrongdoing deserves fair and humane treatment until proven guilty.
He questioned the manner in which El-Rufai was handled, noting that the former governor had returned to Nigeria voluntarily yet was treated as though he had been evading authorities.
Obi reiterated his stance, saying the legal process should be allowed to run its full course without prejudice.
He added that he has consistently spoken and written about the importance of due process in such matters.
Political Alliances
The remarks come amid shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Both Obi and El-Rufai have recently aligned with the ADC, part of a broader movement of defections aimed at mounting a stronger opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Their new political alignment is notable, given El-Rufai’s previous criticism of Obi during the 2023 presidential race.
The controversy surrounding El-Rufai began on February 12, when security officials attempted to detain him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport shortly after his return from Cairo.
According to his aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, El-Rufai refused to comply because the operatives did not present a formal invitation or warrant.
Days later, on February 16, he reported voluntarily to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
He was subsequently transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on February 19.
The New Judgement
A magistrate court later extended his remand by an additional 14 days on March 5, fueling public debate and calls for authorities to either formally charge him or grant his release.
El-Rufai has since approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, filing a fundamental rights suit to challenge both the search of his residence and the legality of his detention.
Those named in the suit include the ICPC, the magistrate who authorized the remand, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.
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On Tuesday, the former governor appeared before the Federal High Court in Kaduna for his arraignment, marking the next phase in the unfolding legal battle.