A Bauchi-based legal practitioner, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isah, has expressed the view that the petition reportedly submitted by the family of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to President Bola Tinubu seeking a hearing should not be entertained.
Speaking on issues surrounding the former governor’s dealings with federal authorities, Isah argued that, in his opinion, the petition lacks merit based on legal and ethical considerations.
The lawyer stated that El-Rufai remained a controversial public figure during his time in office, alleging that his administration was associated with several claims of human rights violations.
According to Isah, it is inconsistent for an individual accused of violating the rights of others to seek relief without first addressing those allegations.
He maintained that legal principles require fairness and accountability, adding that anyone seeking justice should also have respected the rights of others while in public office.
The lawyer cited the legal doctrine commonly referred to as the principle of “unclean hands,” arguing that a person who failed to uphold justice for others may face challenges in seeking similar relief for themselves.
He further stated that the former governor should be allowed to answer any allegations against him through the appropriate legal process, insisting that the petition from his family should not interfere with the course of justice.
However, Isah emphasized that all relevant authorities should continue to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the law while ensuring that every citizen, including El-Rufai, is afforded the constitutional right to a fair hearing and an opportunity to defend themselves.
