The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has reacted to the emotional public lamentation of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, calling for fairness, compassion and strict adherence to the rule of law in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the former minister.
Obi made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, saying he was deeply moved after watching a viral video in which Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai expressed anguish over her husband’s ordeal.
According to him, the emotional appeal prompted sober reflection on the state of justice and the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
“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.
While noting that allegations against El-Rufai and every other Nigerian should be subjected to due legal process, the NDC presidential candidate stressed that justice must be fair, transparent and never appear punitive before trial.
“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. In a democracy governed by the rule of law, institutions exist to protect every citizen’s rights, regardless of their background,” he stated.
Obi warned that any perception of selective justice could erode public confidence in democratic institutions and threaten national cohesion.
“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 added.
He urged the country’s institutions to uphold justice with humanity and fairness, insisting that respect for the rule of law remains the bedrock of a truly democratic society.
“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.
