In an open letter dated September 24, 2026, addressed to Tinubu through Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Onoh emphasized the need for compassion and reconciliation regarding El-Rufai’s situation.
El-Rufai faces serious allegations, including a case from the Department of State Services concerning unlawful interception of telephone communications. A Federal High Court in Abuja is set to rule on his no-case submission on October 26.
Onoh reminded the President of El-Rufai's significant contributions to the APC and the 2023 presidential campaign, stating, “We cannot erase the foundational role Mallam El-Rufai played in ensuring the victory of the All Progressives Congress.”
While acknowledging that El-Rufai's personality can be challenging—describing him as “rigid” and “notoriously difficult”—Onoh highlighted El-Rufai's loyalty and commitment to his causes.
Expressing concern over the apparent distancing of El-Rufai's friends due to political pressures, Onoh declared his determination to advocate for El-Rufai’s recognition as a valuable contributor to nation-building.
He urged Tinubu to look to historical examples of political reconciliation, citing Julius Caesar’s policy of clemency and former President Shehu Shagari's pardon of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu in 1982.
Onoh referenced Sections 174 and 175 of the 1999 Constitution, noting that these provisions empower the Attorney-General to discontinue criminal proceedings and allow for the President's prerogative of mercy.
“Tinubu’s intervention would not be an act of weakness but a demonstration of political maturity,” Onoh stated, warning that abandoning El-Rufai could exacerbate political fractures at a time when unity is essential.
He concluded his letter by urging the President to prioritize “reconciliation over retribution” and to transform the situation into an opportunity for national healing. “Please, let us get value out of this. It matters,” he implored.
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