Former presidential candidate and Labour Party chieftain, Peter Obi, has condemned the arrest and continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing the situation as “political persecution.”
Obi made the remarks on Sunday, March 22, during a meeting with stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress in Kaduna, where he raised concerns about democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
According to him, El-Rufai’s prolonged detention raises serious questions about due process and respect for human rights.
“It is a political persecution. We have a law, and that law allows for people to be treated with dignity until they are found guilty. Let our law prevail,” Obi said.
He also questioned the handling of the former governor’s case, noting that El-Rufai reportedly returned to the country voluntarily yet has remained in detention.
“How do you tell somebody you’re inviting him, and he came back voluntarily in the country on his own, and you’re treating him like somebody who was running away? No. Let the law follow its course,” he added.
El-Rufai has been in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission since February 18, following a transfer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
He is also facing charges filed by the Department of State Services, with allegations including cybercrime, while a court hearing has been scheduled for April 23, 2026.
The former governor has filed lawsuits against the DSS and ICPC, accusing the agencies of unlawful detention and abuse of power.
Meanwhile, his family and legal team have continued to call for his release, alleging violations of his rights and due process.
In response, the ICPC maintains that his detention is necessary as investigations into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office are ongoing.
The case has continued to generate debate across the political space, with growing calls for transparency and adherence to legal procedures.
