**”Says Wife’s Tears Reflect Nigeria’s Justice Crisis

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for fair and transparent treatment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, saying the emotional plea by El-Rufai’s wife, Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, underscores the need for justice to be administered without prejudice.

Obi, who is currently in the United States, said he was deeply moved after watching a viral video of El-Rufai’s wife expressing anguish over what she described as the treatment meted out to her husband.

In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday and titled, “A Wife’s Tears, A Nation’s Conscience: Let Justice Have a Heart,” the former Anambra State governor stressed that the rule of law must prevail irrespective of the allegations against any individual.

“I woke this morning in America and was deeply moved by an emotional viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, prompting deep reflection on our nation’s future,” Obi wrote.

He maintained that while allegations against any citizen should be investigated, justice must be transparent and fair, warning against measures that appear punitive before a court reaches a verdict.

“Regardless of the allegations against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial. In a democracy governed by the rule of law, institutions exist to protect every citizen’s rights, regardless of their background,” he said.

Obi warned that any perception of selective justice could undermine public confidence in state institutions and deepen national divisions.

“We must resist any hint of selective justice that erodes public trust and threatens national unity. Those tasked with enforcing our laws must act professionally and strictly follow due process,” he added.

The opposition leader urged Nigerians and law enforcement institutions to uphold the principles of justice, fairness and human dignity, insisting that these values remain essential to building the country he envisions.

“Let us strive for a Nigeria where the law is paramount, and where every citizen is guaranteed dignity and justice. This is the foundation of the New Nigeria we envisage,” Obi stated.