Former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has alleged that a Kaduna-based cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, was arrested by authorities shortly after hosting him on Sunday.
In a post on his X page on Tuesday, Obi said he was informed of the arrest early in the morning, describing the development as a threat to democratic freedoms.
“I have just been made aware early this morning that revered religious leader, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has been arrested by authorities shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday,” Obi said.
The former governor warned that such actions could erode democratic values, stressing that citizens must not be subjected to harassment over perceived political affiliations.
“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,” he added.
Obi further emphasised the need to protect fundamental freedoms, noting that democracy cannot thrive in an atmosphere of intimidation.
“This country must defend freedom and free speech, which are the hallmarks of every democratic society. Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society, and this Nigerian government must understand this fact,” he said.
He also urged authorities to adhere strictly to the rule of law and desist from actions capable of undermining democratic institutions.
“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,” Obi stated.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from security agencies regarding the arrest or the circumstances surrounding it.
The development comes days after Obi visited Kaduna State as part of his nationwide political consultations. During the visit, he met with stakeholders and reiterated his position on decentralising governance in Nigeria.
“Abuja to Kaduna is less than two hours, nothing stops a President from going via road to Kaduna for a meeting, stay there for a day or two before coming back,” he had said.
Obi also described Kaduna as a strategic hub with the potential for economic revival, stressing the need for unity and inclusive governance.
“A divided society cannot progress, but a united, just, and inclusive one will always find a path to peace and development,” he added.
