Former spokesman for the Labour Party presidential campaign council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of allegedly targeting former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai following his reported defection to the African Democratic Congress.
Okonkwo made the claim on Friday during an appearance on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, where he commented on reports surrounding El-Rufai’s alleged detention.
During the interview, Okonkwo argued that the former Kaduna governor was being unfairly treated because of his political realignment. According to him, the situation raises concerns about the use of government power against opposition figures.
He maintained that while no individual should be shielded from investigation, the courts should determine any allegations rather than political authorities.
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Okonkwo further questioned the application of anti-corruption measures, suggesting that the government was selectively deploying its powers against political opponents.
The lawyer and actor also raised legal concerns regarding detention procedures, stating that under Nigerian law authorities should not hold a suspect for more than 48 hours without granting bail or presenting the individual before a court.
He urged the federal government to release El-Rufai while allowing the judicial process to proceed in accordance with the law.
Okonkwo stressed that in criminal matters it remains the responsibility of the prosecution to prove allegations in court, noting that accusations alone should not justify prolonged detention.
The remarks have added a new dimension to political discussions surrounding recent party defections and the shifting dynamics within Nigeria’s opposition landscape.
