“It Is Political Persecution” — Peter Obi Slams Detention of Nasir El-Rufai

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the continued detention of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, describing it as politically motivated.

Obi made the remarks on Sunday during a meeting with stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna. He questioned the circumstances surrounding El-Rufai’s arrest and detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), stating that the situation raises concerns about adherence to the rule of law.

According to him, individuals under investigation should be treated with dignity until proven guilty. He also argued that El-Rufai, who reportedly returned to the country voluntarily, should not be handled as a fugitive.

El-Rufai has been in ICPC custody since February 18, following his transfer from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Authorities are investigating allegations of money laundering and abuse of office.

Separately, the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed cybercrime charges against the former governor. A court hearing in the matter is scheduled for April 23, 2026.

El-Rufai has challenged his detention in court, filing suits against both the DSS and the ICPC. He alleges unlawful detention and abuse of power by the agencies.

His legal team, led by Ubong Esop Akpan, also accused the ICPC of misrepresenting facts before the court and abusing judicial processes in a letter dated March 6, 2026.

Family members of the former governor have called for his release, maintaining that his continued detention is unjustified. Meanwhile, the ICPC has said the investigation is ongoing and necessary to address the allegations.