Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, issued a statement on December 20, 2024, commending Governor Ademola Adeleke for intervening to prevent the inhumane punishment of death by hanging for the theft of a fowl and eggs.
The individual had already spent 14 years in prison, a sentence that far exceeded the demands of justice.
Obi highlighted this case as an example of the harsh inequalities in the Nigerian legal system. He pointed out that those who speak freely are treated as criminals, while individuals who embezzle billions of public funds are celebrated, even when caught and taken to court. Meanwhile, those pursuing honest, legitimate businesses face oppressive regulations and are treated with suspicion.
Obi emphasized that the current system rewards impunity while punishing integrity, underscoring the urgent need for judicial reform and genuine accountability in governance.
