Obi Decries El-Rufai’s Detention as Political Persecution, Warns on Rule of Law

Former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi has criticised the extended detention of ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai as politically motivated. Speaking at an ADC stakeholders’ meeting in Kaduna, he argued that holding anyone without conviction undermines due process. Obi asked why a man who voluntarily returned would be treated as a fugitive. He urged authorities to uphold dignity and let the law run its course. He warned that such actions threaten Nigeria’s democratic principles. El-Rufai has been with the anti-corruption agency since mid-February as probes into alleged money laundering and abuse of office continue. He faces additional cybercrime charges, with a court date set for April 23, 2026. His lawyers and family have challenged his detention, accusing security agencies of overreach. The case has fuelled debate over Nigeria’s justice system and political climate ahead of the 2027 elections.

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