By Ayo Kehinde
Public outrage has followed the reported arrest of a Kaduna-based cleric shortly after hosting former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, amid growing concerns over alleged intimidation and shrinking civic space in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, titled “Troubling Developments in Our Polity that Must Be Nipped in the Bud”, Obi said the incident underscores a growing threat to civil liberties and democratic norms in the country.
According to him, the cleric was arrested shortly after receiving him on Sunday, a development he noted raises serious concerns about the state of freedom of expression and movement in Nigeria.
“This development underscores the deeply troubling state of our nation and our democracy, where freedom of speech and movement is increasingly threatened, and where citizens and perceived political opponents face harassment and unnecessary persecution. This cannot be allowed to continue”, Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor called on relevant authorities to uphold democratic principles, particularly the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
He emphasised that freedom of speech remains a cornerstone of any democratic society, warning that suppression and intimidation of dissent could undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
“Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society, and this Nigerian government must understand this fact”, he added.
Obi further urged those in positions of authority to respect the rule of law and adhere strictly to democratic tenets in their engagement with citizens.
“I respectfully call on all those bent on undermining our already fragile democracy to please stop and apply the rule of law and tenets of democracy in dealing with citizens”, he said.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation or response from security agencies regarding the alleged arrest.
