Obi Reacts to Arrests of Supporters in Akwa Ibom, Says Independence Means Little Without Freedom

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has reacted to the reported arrest of Obidient Movement members in Akwa Ibom State, insisting that Nigerians should not be prevented from expressing their political affiliations within the limits of the law.

The former Anambra State governor made the statement on X after reports emerged that Elijah Noah, coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement in Akwa Ibom, was arrested during a planned Independence Day march in Uyo on Thursday.

According to reports, the incident occurred after police moved to stop the planned procession. The Akwa Ibom Police Command said it had directed political groups to reschedule October 1 activities because of security concerns.

Reacting to the development, Obi said political identity should not be a source of fear or intimidation for citizens.

“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,” Obi said.

He linked the incident to the broader meaning of Nigeria’s independence, arguing that freedom must include the ability of citizens to express themselves peacefully and lawfully.

“Independence means very little if citizens cannot freely express themselves, within the bounds of the law, without fear,” he said.

Obi also took aim at what he described as the transformation of former critics of injustice into defenders of oppression after they assume positions of authority.

“One of the greatest tragedies of our society is that people who once described themselves as freedom fighters can become defenders of oppression when they eventually occupy positions of authority,” he said.

He said people who once condemned injustice could become unconcerned when the same injustice affected individuals with whom they disagreed.

According to Obi, Nigeria’s independence should mean that citizens are protected from fear, injustice, intolerance and the abuse of power.

“Our independence must ultimately mean freedom from fear, injustice, intolerance and abuse of power. Nigeria must belong to all of us,” he said.

The controversy comes amid increased political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Reports also said other Obidient members were arrested in connection with the disrupted Uyo procession.

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