Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, , has condemned the reported arrest of prominent Islamic cleric, , describing it as a troubling development for Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi disclosed that the cleric was allegedly detained by authorities shortly after hosting him in Kaduna over the weekend. Reacting via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi expressed deep concern over what he described as a growing pattern of intolerance and political repression.
“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,” he stated.
He warned that such actions threaten fundamental democratic principles, particularly freedom of speech and movement, stressing that citizens and perceived political opponents should not be subjected to harassment or intimidation.
According to him, the incident highlights the fragile state of Nigeria’s democratic space, where civil liberties must be protected to sustain true governance. “Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society,” Obi added, calling on authorities to uphold the rule of law.
The former presidential candidate further urged government officials and security agencies to respect democratic norms and avoid actions capable of undermining public trust.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the circumstances surrounding the cleric’s arrest.
The development has since sparked conversations across political and civic spaces, raising fresh concerns about human rights, political tolerance, and the state of democracy in Nigeria.
