Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has called on the administration of Bola Tinubu to end persecution of political opponents under the guise of criminal prosecution.
In a statement on Monday, Obi warned that undermining the rule of law could threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability and economic progress.
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“The current administration must put an end to the blatant persecution of political opponents disguised as criminal prosecution,” Obi said.
He expressed concern over the recent arrest and continued detention of leaders associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
According to Obi, the timing of their arrests coming after their alleged commitment to work towards voting the current administration out in the 2027 general elections raises serious concerns about political motivation.
“The integrity of the rule of law in Nigeria is non-negotiable; its degradation undermines our economic development and threatens national stability,” he said.
Obi further argued that prosecutorial decisions must be based strictly on credible evidence and probable cause, adding that such processes should be transparent and free from political influence.
“Prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in concrete evidence and probable cause, transparently presented without ulterior motives,” he said.
He also criticised what he described as stringent bail conditions and the alleged denial of bail to the affected political figures, saying such actions suggest that criminal prosecution is being used as a political tool.
The former Anambra State governor said the situation surrounding El-Rufai was particularly troubling, noting that his reported transfers between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) suggest a desperate search for charges.
“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 of by those in power,” Obi said.
While reiterating his support for the fight against corruption, Obi stressed that such efforts must be carried out with integrity and transparency.
“I wholeheartedly support the fight against corruption and wrongdoing, but it must be conducted with integrity and transparency, starting with those currently in power rather than targeting opponents,” he added.
