Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has dismissed claims that her husband is being targeted because of his perceived political influence, questioning why anyone should be intimidated by democratic competition.
Speaking on the issue, she argued that if critics genuinely believe her husband’s popularity is overstated, they should allow him to participate freely in the political process instead of attempting to sideline him. According to her, democracy thrives when opposing voices are allowed to compete on equal terms.
She maintained that there is no justification for treating her husband as though he poses an extraordinary threat, stressing that he is simply a politician with ideas, experience and public support. While acknowledging his strengths, she said those qualities should not become grounds for fear or persecution.
Asiya described Nasir El-Rufai as intelligent, strategic and widely respected, but insisted that such attributes are expected in politics. She questioned why anyone confident in their own achievements would shy away from facing political challengers at the ballot box rather than relying on intimidation or other tactics.
Turning to her husband’s ongoing legal battle, she said President Bola Tinubu should not interfere directly with judicial proceedings. However, she maintained that the President has a responsibility to ensure government institutions operate within the law and carry out their duties impartially.
She explained that while the President cannot dictate the outcome of court cases, he has the constitutional authority to ensure agencies under his administration uphold fairness, professionalism and due process in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Reflecting on events leading up to the 2023 presidential election, Asiya recalled the sacrifices her family made in support of Tinubu’s campaign. She said her husband stood firmly behind Tinubu during a difficult political period, even when doing so created disagreements with influential figures.
According to her, Nasir El-Rufai remained committed to ensuring that political agreements reached at the time were respected. She noted that his determination led him to challenge certain actions through legal channels, demonstrating his commitment to what he believed was right.
She also revealed that she personally participated in campaign activities in support of Tinubu’s presidential ambition, saying her involvement reflected the family’s confidence in his leadership.
For that reason, she said it is only reasonable to expect mutual respect and fairness in return. She clarified that neither she nor her husband is asking for special treatment or political favours, but simply expects lawful conduct and basic courtesy from those they once supported.
Asiya concluded by reiterating that the President’s responsibility is not to halt legal proceedings but to ensure that every institution under the federal government acts independently, respects the rule of law and treats all citizens fairly, regardless of their political affiliations.
