Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), says he was deeply touched by the emotional appeal made by Asiya el-Rufai, one of the wives of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, stressing that justice must always be fair, transparent and guided by due process.
Obi made the remarks in a statement on Wednesday after watching a viral video of Asiya’s emotional plea to President Bola Tinubu, where she appealed for her husband’s constitutional rights while in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
According to Obi, every Nigerian deserves justice that is impartial and free from any appearance of bias.
“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 maintained that while anyone accused of wrongdoing should face the law, the judicial process must remain transparent and fair.
“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 stated.
Obi also argued that bail conditions imposed before trial should not be unnecessarily harsh or punitive.
“Justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial,” he added.
He stressed that democratic institutions exist to protect the rights and dignity of every citizen, regardless of political affiliation.
“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,” Obi said.
His comments followed Tuesday’s emotional press conference by Asiya el-Rufai, who appealed to President Tinubu to ensure her husband enjoys his constitutional rights while facing trial.
Source: Peter Obi’s statement
