A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, has raised fresh concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy following the reported arrest of a Kaduna-based cleric shortly after hosting him.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday morning, described the development as “deeply troubling,” warning that it reflects a growing pattern of intimidation and shrinking civic space in the country.
The former Anambra State governor revealed that the cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, was reportedly arrested by authorities soon after receiving him during a visit to Kaduna State on Sunday.
“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 stated.
Obi expressed fears that the incident signals a deterioration of civil liberties, particularly the rights to free speech and association, which he described as fundamental pillars of any democratic society.
According to him, the alleged arrest raises serious questions about the safety of citizens and political actors, especially those perceived to hold dissenting views.
“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,” he said.
The ADC chieftain stressed the importance of upholding democratic norms, urging authorities to act within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of citizens.
He warned that suppression of dissent could further weaken Nigeria’s already fragile democratic institutions.
“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,” Obi added.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies or relevant authorities regarding the arrest of Sheikh Umar or the circumstances surrounding it.
