Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on the current government to stop what he described as the blatant persecution of political opponents under the guise of criminal prosecution.
Obi made the appeal on his verified X account on Monday, emphasizing that the integrity of the rule of law in Nigeria is non-negotiable, warning that its erosion threatens economic development and national stability.
He expressed concern over the recent arrests and continued detention of key figures from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including Abubakar Malami, former Attorney General of the Federation, and Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State.
According to Obi, the timing of the arrests— coinciding with their commitment to ensure the current administration is voted out in 2027 — raises serious questions.
“The methods used in their apprehension contradict the principles of rule of law. Prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in concrete evidence and probable cause, transparently presented without ulterior motives.
“The undue denial of bail or unjustly stringent conditions imposed on bail leave little doubt that the government is wielding criminal prosecution as a weapon against its political opponents.
“The situation surrounding Malam El-Rufai is particularly concerning; his repeated transfers between the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS suggest a desperate search for any charge that might stick, straying dangerously close to a fishing expedition rather than a credible investigation.
“I firmly believe that Nigeria requires a civil and criminal justice system that instills confidence in every citizen—that no one should fear persecution for their political beliefs or actions disapproved by those in power.
“The criminal trial process must adhere strictly to legal standards. As we approach a critical election period, the government must cease its efforts to undermine political opponents under the pretense of battling corruption, and wrong doing.
“I wholeheartedly support the fight against corruption, and wrong doing, but it must be conducted with integrity and transparency, starting with those currently in power rather than targeting opponents.
“A credible anti-corruption and anti wrong doing campaign cannot afford to be selective,” Obi wrote.