Obi: El-Rufai facing political persecution, he should not be treated like a fugitive

Former Anambra State governor Peter Obi has described the detention and trial of ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai as “political persecution,” arguing that the former governor is being treated like a fugitive despite returning to Nigeria voluntarily.

Obi made the remarks in Kaduna during a stakeholders’ meeting of the African Democratic Congress, where he criticised the approach adopted by authorities in handling the case. He insisted that the law guarantees dignity and fair treatment for individuals accused of crimes until they are proven guilty.

According to him, El-Rufai’s decision to return to the country from Egypt and subsequently present himself to authorities should have been met with due legal process rather than what he described as excessive treatment.

Obi questions arrest and detention

The former Labour Party presidential candidate maintained that while allegations of wrongdoing should be investigated, enforcement must not undermine established legal principles. He stressed that suspects should not be treated as though they have already been convicted.

Obi questioned why someone who honoured an invitation and returned willingly would be handled in a manner suggesting evasion or guilt. He added that he had consistently spoken about the need for adherence to the rule of law and would continue to do so.

He warned that any deviation from due process could erode public confidence in institutions, particularly in politically sensitive cases.

Timeline of arrest and legal proceedings

El-Rufai’s legal troubles began in February when security operatives attempted to arrest him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport upon his arrival from Cairo. His media aide said he declined to accompany them at the time due to the absence of a formal invitation.

He later presented himself at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 16 and was subsequently transferred to the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission on February 19.

Read also: El-Rufai arrives Kaduna court today under heavy security

A magistrate court later extended his remand order, prompting calls from political actors and civil society groups for either his release or immediate arraignment.

El-Rufai has also filed a fundamental rights suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging the search of his residence and the legality of his detention. The case names the anti-corruption agency, the inspector-general of police, and the attorney-general of the federation as respondents.

His arraignment at the Federal High Court in Kaduna on Tuesday marks the next phase in the case, which continues to attract political attention amid shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.