The wife of former Kaduna State Governor, Asiya El-Rufai, has made an emotional appeal to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, urging him to ensure that her husband receives fair treatment as he faces criminal prosecution.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, Asiya said her family was not asking the President to stop the legal process against Nasir El-Rufai but expected him to ensure that the rule of law and constitutional rights were respected.
She argued that her husband played a significant role in supporting Tinubu’s presidential ambition, saying he stood by him during difficult political moments. According to her, both she and her husband campaigned actively for Tinubu and therefore believe they deserve fairness and basic courtesy from his administration.
Asiya maintained that although the President cannot interfere with court proceedings, he has the authority to ensure that government agencies carry out their responsibilities lawfully and without political bias.
She also questioned why El-Rufai has repeatedly been denied bail despite previously honouring all bail conditions, raising concerns that political considerations may be influencing the case. She called for access to proper medical care, unrestricted legal representation, regular family visits and bail on reasonable terms.
The former governor’s wife disclosed that El-Rufai is battling glaucoma and expressed concern over his access to medical treatment. She further denied allegations that he used a hospital visit to hold political meetings, insisting that any interactions took place openly after his medical appointment.
Warning against actions that could weaken confidence in Nigeria’s justice system, Asiya urged authorities to uphold due process and allow the courts to act independently. She also dismissed claims that her husband poses a political threat, insisting that democracy should permit political competition rather than suppress it.
Her remarks have intensified public debate over El-Rufai’s prosecution, with many Nigerians closely watching how the case will shape perceptions of justice, democracy and the rule of law.
