I've interviewed presidents, governors, generals, activists and politicians. But sometimes it's the interviews with the families left carrying the emotional burden that stay with you.
A few days ago, I interviewed the lawyer Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna state governor, Nasir El-Rufai. She spoke with the precision of a legal expert and the pain of a spouse.
She didn't ask me to defend her husband. She didn't ask Nigerians to take sides. She spoke instead - quietly but powerfully - about constitutional rights, due process, access to lawyers and doctors, and the emotional toll prolonged detention takes on a family.
It reminded me that behind every politically charged courtroom battle is a human story.
Whatever anyone thinks of Nasir El-Rufai politically, one truth remains: the rule of law only has meaning when it protects people whose politics we may disagree with. That is why due process is not a favour. It is the foundation of democracy.
Power is temporary. The legal precedents we tolerate today may become the standards - and the nightmare - we all live under tomorrow.
A Wife’s Tears, A Nation’s Conscience: Let Justice Have a Heart.
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.
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.
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.
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. -PO