By Myke Uzendu
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to democratic freedoms in Nigeria, following the reported arrest of a Kaduna-based cleric Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani, shortly after hosting him.
In a statement issued on Tuesday on his X handle, , Obi said he was informed that Sheikh Umar, a respected religious leader, was arrested by authorities shortly after meeting with him in Kaduna on Sunday. He described the development as a disturbing reflection of the current state of the nation’s democracy.
According to Obi, the incident highlights a pattern of intimidation, harassment, and suppression of perceived political opponents, warning that such actions could undermine the country’s democratic foundations.
“This development underscores the deeply troubling state of our nation where freedom of speech and movement is increasingly threatened,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor also linked the incident to what he described as a growing trend of hostility against him and his supporters in recent times. Observers note that Obi’s political activities and engagements across the country have occasionally attracted criticism, disruptions, and online attacks targeting both him and members of his support base.
Obi warned that the continued targeting of opposition figures and their associates could create an atmosphere of fear and weaken citizens’ confidence in democratic institutions.
“This country must defend freedom and free speech, which are the hallmarks of every democratic society,” he stated, adding that suppression of dissent has no place in a democratic system.
He called on authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure that citizens are not persecuted for their political beliefs or associations.
“I respectfully call on all those bent on undermining our already fragile democracy to stop and adhere to the tenets of democracy in dealing with citizens,” Obi added.
The development comes amid heightened political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, with concerns being raised by various stakeholders over the safety of political actors and the need to protect democratic space in the country.
