‘Political Persecution,’ Peter Obi Condemns Continued Detention Of El-Rufai

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has criticised the arrest and continued detention of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as “political persecution.”

Obi made the remarks on Sunday during a meeting with stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress in Kaduna.

The former Anambra State governor expressed concern over El-Rufai’s detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), warning that the development raises questions about the state of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.

“It is political persecution. We have laws that guarantee dignity for individuals until proven guilty. Let the law prevail,” Obi said.

He questioned the manner in which El-Rufai was treated despite reportedly returning to the country voluntarily.

El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 18, following his transfer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed charges against him over alleged cybercrime, with a court hearing scheduled for April 23, 2026.

The former governor has, however, instituted legal actions against both the DSS and ICPC, accusing the agencies of unlawful detention, abuse of power, and manipulation of court processes.

The ICPC maintains that El-Rufai’s detention is necessary as investigations into allegations of money laundering and abuse of office continue.

His family has also called for his release, while his legal team, led by Ubong Esop Akpan, accused the anti-corruption agency of misrepresentation and disregard for due process in a letter dated March 6, 2026.