Opposition politics is not treason, Lauretta Onochie cautions Tinubu over El-Rufai

*Says, “In moments like this, silence is not neutrality — it is complicity”

*”Nigeria belongs to all of us…We stand with Mallam” – Ex-Presidential Aide

She emphasised that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy and argued that no citizen, whether in government or opposition, should face intimidation or selective prosecution.

A political statement expressing solidarity with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has sparked reactions amid reports of moves by security agencies to question the opposition figure.

The statement, signed by Lauretta Onochie, alleged that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) attempted to arrest El-Rufai without due process. It further referenced directives purportedly linked to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and noted El-Rufai’s expected appearance before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In the statement, Onochie described the reported developments as “troubling,” warning that the use of security agencies without transparency or court authorization could undermine democratic institutions. She emphasised that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy and argued that no citizen, whether in government or opposition, should face intimidation or selective prosecution.

Onochie urged that any allegations against El-Rufai be handled through lawful and transparent judicial processes, stating that evidence should be tested in open court. She also called on members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to remain united and committed to democratic principles.

Addressing the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the statement cautioned against what it described as the misuse of state institutions against perceived political opponents, noting that precedents set today could have lasting implications for Nigeria’s democratic framework.

“In moments like this, silence is not neutrality — it is complicity.

“When security agencies are deployed without invitation, without warrant, without court order, and without transparency, it raises serious concerns about the health of our democracy.

“The reported attempt by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to arrest Nasir El-Rufai (@elrufai), allegedly on the directive of Nuhu Ribadu, the NSA, and the looming appearance at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), sends troubling signals to Nigerians who believe in due process and constitutional order.

“Whatever the political differences that may exist, Nigeria is not a monarchy. It is a constitutional democracy. No citizen — whether in government or in opposition — should be subjected to intimidation, harassment, or selective prosecution.

To Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the former presidential aide said, “Stand firm. Stand calm. Stand resolute.

“Across Nigeria — from the North to the South, from the East to the West — millions are watching. Many see beyond the headlines. Many understand that political pluralism is not a crime. Many recognize that opposition politics is not treason.

“If there are allegations, let them be clear.
If there are charges, let them be lawful.
If there is evidence, let it be tested in open court.

“But persecution disguised as prosecution weakens the very foundations of the nation.

“To members and supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC): this is not a time for fear. It is a time for unity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. History has shown that democratic resilience is forged in moments of pressure.

“To the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu: power is transient. Institutions endure. The misuse of state machinery against perceived opponents sets precedents that outlive governments.

“Nigeria must not descend into an era where dissent is criminalized and opposition figures are hounded through security agencies.

“Mallam El-Rufai, as you report to the EFCC, know this: You do not walk alone. You are not isolated.

“Many Nigerians stand for fairness, due process, and the right of every political actor to participate without intimidation.

“Democracy must be defended — not selectively applied. Nigeria belongs to all of us,” said Lauretta Onochie.

As of press time, there has been no official public statement from the DSS, the EFCC, or the Presidency responding to the allegations.