Peter Obi and Dele Momodu have renewed calls for the release of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai. Their comments come amid his continued detention by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Obi’s media aide, Idris Zekeri, said the former Anambra governor wants El-Rufai’s case handled through due process.
“If there is any case against him, it should be established instead of detaining him unlawfully for an extended period,” Zekeri said.
He added that no Nigerian should face prolonged detention without a charge or respect for their rights.
Meanwhile, the ICPC says El-Rufai’s detention has court approval. However, the former governor has challenged parts of his detention and the legal proceedings against him. The Federal High Court in Abuja recently reserved ruling on his no-case submission.
The case involves alleged unlawful interception of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s telephone communications. The court will rule on the matter on October 26. His N1bn fundamental rights suit against the ICPC, police and Attorney-General will also continue on October 27.
Momodu also criticised El-Rufai’s continued detention during a Channels Television interview. He said El-Rufai played a major role in the emergence of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“Without former President Muhammad Buhari, Aisha Buhari and Nasir El-Rufai, I am not sure President Tinubu will be in office today,” Momodu said.
He also praised the African Democratic Congress for appointing El-Rufai despite his detention. According to him, the move gave the former governor dignity during a difficult period.
For context, El-Rufai recently reflected on the silence of some former associates and friends. In a statement shared on X, he said he held no hatred against those who stayed away. The former governor said his support for people came from his faith, values and conscience. He added that he had no regrets about helping others when he believed it was right.
El-Rufai also said he would not seek revenge over what he considers injustice, ingratitude or personal.
