Peter Obi Alleges Arrest of Kaduna Cleric Following His Visit

Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has alleged that Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, a Kaduna-based cleric who hosted him on Sunday, was arrested by authorities shortly afterward.

Obi shared the claim on his X page Tuesday, saying he learned of the arrest early in the morning and describing it as a threat to democratic freedoms.

“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. This cannot be allowed to continue,” he wrote.

He added: “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, and this Nigerian government must understand this fact.

“I respectfully call on all those bent on undermining our already fragile democracy to please stop and apply the rule of law and tenets of democracy in dealing with citizens.”

The Kaduna State Police Command, however, said it was not aware of the alleged arrest. Spokesperson Mansir Hassan told The Cable, “I am just hearing it from you. Go and make your findings,” noting he had not received any briefing on the matter.

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