Obi condemns arrest of prominent cleric, warns of growing threats to free speech and democratic rights in Nigeria.

Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has reportedly been arrested by authorities shortly after hosting Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during a visit to Kaduna on Sunday.

Peter Obi disclosed the development on Tuesday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, stating that he was informed of the cleric’s arrest earlier in the day. The incident has since raised serious concerns about political tolerance and civil liberties in the country.

“I have just been made aware this morning that revered religious leader, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, was arrested shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday,” Obi said.

Reacting strongly, Obi described the arrest as a troubling reflection of Nigeria’s current democratic climate. He warned that actions perceived as targeting citizens or political associates risk undermining the nation’s already fragile democratic framework.

“This development underscores the deeply troubling state of our nation, where freedom of speech and movement is increasingly under threat, and where citizens and perceived political opponents face harassment and unnecessary persecution,” he added.

Obi further emphasized the need to uphold democratic principles, stressing that freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of any functioning democracy. He cautioned against the suppression of dissenting voices, noting that intimidation has no place in a democratic society.

Calling for restraint, Obi urged authorities to respect the rule of law and adhere strictly to democratic norms in their dealings with citizens, warning that continued actions of this nature could erode public trust in governance.