Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the arrest of respected Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar shortly after hosting him in Kaduna.
In a post shared on his verified X account on Tuesday, Obi described the development as alarming, warning that such actions pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic values.
He stressed that the federal government must uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and movement, which he noted are essential pillars of any democratic society.
Obi argued that the suppression and intimidation of dissenting voices have no place in a democracy, urging authorities to act within the confines of the law.
“I was informed early this morning that revered religious leader Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar was arrested by authorities shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday,” he stated.
“This cannot be allowed to continue,” he added.
He added that the incident reflects a worrying trend where citizens and perceived political opponents are subjected to harassment and undue persecution.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, Obi called on those undermining democratic principles to desist and instead adhere strictly to the rule of law in their dealings with Nigerians.
