Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has said former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is not being persecuted but is instead facing the consequences of his actions while in office.

Adeyanju made the remarks during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Friday, where he called for a comprehensive probe into corruption allegations linked to the former governor.

Reports indicate that operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) attempted to arrest El-Rufai on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, triggering widespread public reactions.

Reacting to the development, Adeyanju maintained that what El-Rufai is experiencing cannot be described as persecution when compared with how critics and perceived opponents were allegedly treated during his administration.

According to him, individuals such as Chidi Odinkalu, Steven Kefas and Audu Maikori were allegedly targeted for speaking against the former governor. He also referenced the reported demolition of a property linked to Senator Shehu Sani Hunkuyi, described as a political rival at the time.

He insisted that while he supports a full investigation into the allegations against El-Rufai, his fundamental rights must be protected.

Adeyanju further drew parallels with the situation involving former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, saying former public office holders must be subject to due process after leaving power.

He added that court orders obtained by teachers and civil servants against mass sackings in Kaduna were allegedly ignored by the former administration, stressing that adherence to due process remains essential in all cases.