(DDM) – Former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has spoken out against what he described as the continuous detention and political targeting of opposition figures under the current administration.
In a statement shared on his official X account on Monday, March 9, 2026, Obi called for strict adherence to the rule of law, emphasizing that political persecution under the guise of criminal prosecution threatens Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Obi specifically referenced the ongoing cases involving former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, both associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He expressed concern over the manner of their arrests, the legal processes, and the agencies handling the cases, raising questions about fairness and transparency.
“Time to End the Persecution of Political Opponents,” Obi wrote. “The current administration must put an end to the blatant persecution of political opponents disguised as criminal prosecution. The integrity of the rule of law in Nigeria is non-negotiable; its degradation undermines our economic development and threatens national stability.”
The former presidential candidate argued that as Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle, anti-corruption efforts must be implemented impartially, ensuring that citizens are not targeted for their political affiliations. He warned that undermining judicial integrity could have far-reaching consequences for governance and public trust in the country’s institutions.
Obi’s statement has sparked widespread debate online, generating reactions from both supporters and critics. Advocates of fair governance applauded his call for accountability and due process, while some critics suggested that political commentary on ongoing legal cases could escalate tensions ahead of elections.
Observers note that the cases of Malami and El-Rufai have been closely followed, with allegations of misconduct by investigative agencies adding to public scrutiny. The continued detention of high-profile political figures has raised questions about the independence of law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies in politically sensitive matters.
Legal experts emphasize that Nigeria’s judiciary is expected to uphold the principles of fairness, due process, and impartiality, even in cases involving politically connected individuals. Any perception of selective enforcement could undermine public confidence and fuel partisan tensions.
Obi’s intervention is seen as part of broader advocacy for political accountability and the protection of opposition voices in Nigeria. Analysts say that his comments may influence public discourse on governance, the role of law enforcement, and the protection of democratic rights in the lead-up to future elections.
As debates continue, civil society groups and political commentators are closely watching how the government and judicial authorities respond to calls for transparency and respect for the rule of law.
The former governor’s statement reinforces the ongoing conversation about balancing anti-corruption measures with political fairness and safeguarding the country’s democratic institutions.
