NIGERIA: Peter Obi Calls For Fair Justice, Due Process Over El-Rufai Case

By Onoja Baba

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for transparency, fairness and strict adherence to due process in the handling of legal matters involving former public officials, warning against actions that could undermine public confidence in the nation’s justice system.

Obi made the call in a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, following a viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, which he said deeply moved him and prompted reflection on Nigeria’s future.

According to him, regardless of the allegations against Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, the administration of justice must remain transparent and fair.

He argued that bail conditions imposed on suspects should be reasonable and should not appear punitive before the commencement or conclusion of 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 Anambra State governor also cautioned against what he described as any hint of selective justice, saying such actions could erode public trust in state institutions and threaten national unity.

He urged law enforcement agencies and other institutions responsible for the administration of justice to discharge their responsibilities professionally and in strict compliance with due process.

Obi further stressed the need for a Nigeria where the rule of law remains supreme and every citizen is treated with dignity and fairness.

“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 said.