The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for strict adherence to the rule of law and due process in the handling of issues involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, warning that selective justice could erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
Obi made the call in a statement issued by the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), following a viral video in which El-Rufai's wife, Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, expressed concern over what she described as the treatment meted out to her husband.
Writing on his X account from the United States, where he is attending an event, Obi said the video left him deeply touched and prompted him to reflect on the state of justice, democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
He maintained that irrespective of the allegations against El-Rufai or any other Nigerian, every citizen is entitled to fair treatment under the law, stressing that judicial processes must be transparent and devoid of political influence.
According to Obi, bail conditions imposed on suspects should be reasonable and should not amount to punishment before the conclusion of trial, noting that the principle of innocence until proven guilty remains a cornerstone of every democratic society.
"In a democracy governed by the rule of law, institutions are established to protect the rights of every citizen without discrimination, regardless of political affiliation, status or background," he stated.
The former Anambra State governor cautioned against selective justice, saying the unequal application of the law weakens public trust in state institutions and threatens national unity.
He urged law enforcement agencies, the judiciary and other relevant institutions to discharge their constitutional responsibilities professionally and in strict compliance with due process.
Obi further stressed that justice, fairness and respect for the dignity of every Nigerian must remain the foundation of governance, adding that such values are indispensable to building the "New Nigeria" he has consistently advocated.
