Photo: Mr. Peter Obi
By: Daniel Kanu
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the reported arrest of a Kaduna-based cleric who recently hosted him during a visit to the state, describing the development as “deeply troubling” and a threat to civil liberties.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi expressed concern over what he termed the growing intolerance for dissent and association in Nigeria, warning that such actions could erode the nation’s democratic foundations.
The former Anambra State governor said no Nigerian should be harassed or intimidated for exercising their constitutional rights, including hosting guests or expressing political preferences.
The cleric, whose identity has drawn public attention following Obi’s visit, was reportedly taken into custody by security operatives under circumstances that remain unclear as of press time. While official confirmation from authorities in Kaduna State is still pending, the incident has already sparked outrage among civil society groups and political observers.
Obi, reacting to the development, stressed that Nigeria’s democracy must be anchored on the rule of law, freedom of association, and respect for human rights. “The reported arrest of a cleric simply for hosting me raises serious questions about the state of our democracy,” he said. “We must not descend into a system where citizens are punished for lawful interactions.”
He further called on relevant authorities to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the arrest and ensure that the rights of the cleric are protected.
According to him, transparency and accountability remain essential to building public trust in governance and security institutions.
The incident comes amid heightened political tension in parts of the country, with increased scrutiny on opposition figures and their engagements. Analysts warn that such developments, if not properly addressed, could further polarise the political environment ahead of future electoral cycles.
Several advocacy groups have also weighed in, urging security agencies to act within the confines of the law and avoid actions that may be perceived as politically motivated.
They emphasized that the right to freely associate and host individuals is a fundamental aspect of a functioning democracy.
As reactions continue to trail the incident, observers are watching closely for an official response from security agencies, as well as any legal steps that may follow regarding the cleric’s detention.
Obi concluded his statement by reiterating his commitment to a Nigeria where justice, fairness, and freedom prevail, urging citizens to remain peaceful while demanding accountability from those in positions of authority.
