Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the arrest of a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric who recently hosted him during a visit to the state.
Obi disclosed on Tuesday that Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar was taken into custody by authorities shortly after hosting him on Sunday. The former Anambra State governor shared the information in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, describing the development as alarming and a sign of increasing pressure on civil liberties in Nigeria.
“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 wrote.
He warned that the incident raises serious concerns about the state of democracy in the country, particularly regarding the protection of freedom of expression and association. According to him, intimidation and harassment of citizens or individuals perceived as political opponents undermine democratic governance.
“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,” Obi stated.
The former governor stressed the importance of protecting fundamental freedoms as a cornerstone of democracy and urged authorities to uphold the rule of law. He further called on relevant agencies to avoid actions that could weaken democratic institutions or erode public confidence in governance.
Obi concluded by appealing to officials to ensure that democratic principles guide their conduct in dealing with citizens.
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