Peter Obi Reacts to Asiya El-Rufai’s Emotional Plea, Warns Against Selective Justice

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for fairness, transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law following an emotional public appeal by Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, over her husband’s ongoing legal troubles.

Obi, who said he watched a viral video of Asiya El-Rufai’s appeal while in the United States, expressed concern about what he described as the need to safeguard justice from any perception of bias or selective application.

In a statement posted on his official X account on Wednesday, the former Anambra State governor said the video prompted him to reflect deeply on Nigeria’s democratic future and the importance of protecting the rights of every citizen.

“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 wrote.

According to him, every Nigerian, irrespective of the allegations against them or their political affiliation, deserves justice that is transparent, impartial and rooted in due process.

Obi argued that bail conditions should never appear punitive before trial, stressing that democratic institutions exist to protect the rights of all citizens without discrimination.

“Regardless of the allegations against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial,” he stated.

The former governor also cautioned law enforcement agencies against actions that could create the impression of selective justice, warning that such perceptions could weaken public confidence in state institutions and threaten national unity.

“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,” Obi added.

He concluded by reiterating his vision of a Nigeria where the rule of law remains supreme and every citizen is treated with dignity and fairness.

Asiya El-Rufai’s Emotional Appeal

Obi’s comments followed an emotional appeal made on Tuesday by Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, alongside Nasir El-Rufai’s other wife, Aichatou, at their Abuja residence.

Speaking directly to President Bola Tinubu, Asiya reminded the President of the political support her family gave him during the 2023 presidential election campaign and pleaded for what she described as fair and humane treatment for her husband.

“Mr. President, Sir, I campaigned for you. I stood up and went to every nook and cranny of Kaduna State for you. My husband stood by your side. Is this what our family deserves?” she asked.

She further alleged that her husband, who has reportedly been diagnosed with high blood pressure and high blood sugar, had been denied adequate medical care while in custody.

Appealing to President Tinubu’s sense of compassion, she added, “The ball is in your court, Mr. President. All these can stop if you say a word. We believe that you are a father, and we know you can empathise.”

ICPC Responds

Meanwhile, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has maintained that it complied fully with a court order by facilitating El-Rufai’s medical examination while in custody.

The commission also confirmed the arrest of El-Rufai’s personal physician, Prof. Bello Abubakar, over allegations of making false statements concerning the former governor’s medical visit.

According to the anti-graft agency, the Kaduna State High Court had fixed July 6, 7 and 8, 2026, for the accelerated hearing of criminal charges against El-Rufai. However, the former governor reportedly failed to appear in court on the first day after insisting on being examined by his personal doctor before leaving custody.

As legal proceedings continue, Obi’s intervention has added a fresh political dimension to the controversy, reigniting national conversations about due process, human rights, judicial independence and the equal application of justice in Nigeria.