BREAKING: Peter Obi calls for fair trial, rule of law in El-Rufai's corruption case

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has called for transparency, fairness and strict adherence to the rule of law in the ongoing trial of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.

El-Rufai is currently facing multiple charges filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), including allegations of corruption, abuse of office, fraud and money laundering linked to his tenure as governor between 2015 and 2023. He has remained in custody for 142 days as legal proceedings continue.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and titled, “A Wife’s Tears, A Nation’s Conscience: Let Justice Have a Heart,” Obi said he was moved after watching a viral video of El-Rufai’s wife, Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, while on a visit to the United States.

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“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,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that every citizen, regardless of the allegations against them, is entitled to a fair and transparent judicial 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,” he said.

Obi warned against actions that could undermine public confidence in the justice system.

“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.

He urged Nigerians to work towards building a country where the rule of law is respected, and every citizen is guaranteed dignity, fairness and equal justice before the law.

The ICPC has maintained that its actions in the case are being carried out in accordance with the law.

The allegations against El-Rufai remain before the court, and he has not been convicted of any offence.