Peter Obi Calls for End to Political Persecution by Tinubu Administration

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the federal government to stop what he described as the ongoing persecution of political opponents under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement released on X on Monday, titled “Time to End the Persecution of Political Opponents,” Obi condemned the use of criminal prosecution as a tool to intimidate opposition figures. He warned that undermining the rule of law threatens Nigeria’s economic development and national stability.

Obi specifically highlighted the recent arrests of prominent political figures, including former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. He described the timing of their detentions—which coincided with efforts to challenge the Tinubu administration in the 2027 elections—as highly suspicious.

“The methods used in their apprehension contradict the principles of the rule of law,” Obi said. “Prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in concrete evidence and presented transparently, without ulterior motives. The undue denial of bail or the imposition of excessively stringent conditions leaves little doubt that criminal prosecution is being wielded as a weapon against political opponents.”

Obi also expressed concern over El-Rufai’s repeated transfers between anti-graft agencies and the Department of State Security (DSS), describing the situation as “a desperate search for any charge that might stick, more a fishing expedition than a credible investigation.”

He called for a civil and criminal justice system that instills confidence in every citizen, emphasizing that no one should fear persecution for their political beliefs. “As we approach a critical election period, the government must cease undermining political opponents under the pretense of fighting corruption and wrongdoing,” he said.

While reaffirming his support for anti-corruption efforts, Obi stressed that such campaigns must be impartial and transparent. “A credible anti-corruption drive cannot afford to be selective. It should start with those currently in power rather than targeting opponents,” he added.