Peter Obi Condemns Arrest Of Supporters In Akwa Ibom, Says Independence Means Little Without Freedom
Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the arrest of his supporters in Akwa Ibom State, arguing that such actions undermine democratic freedom. The arrests occurred after police suspended political gatherings, citing security concerns.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding political expression and civil liberties in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Obi, in a statement reacting to the arrests, said the detention of Nigerians allegedly for identifying with the Obidient Movement should concern everyone who believes in democracy and freedom.
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has condemned the arrest of some of his supporters in Akwa Ibom State, saying Nigeria’s independence is meaningless if citizens cannot freely express themselves without fear.
“Independence means very little if citizens cannot freely express themselves, within the bounds of the law, without fear,” Obi said on Friday.
“Reports that some Nigerians in Akwa Ibom were arrested simply for identifying with the Obidient Movement should worry every Nigerian who believes in democracy and freedom, especially when such identification is a constitutional right.”
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