By BONIFACE AKARAH

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential frontrunner, Peter Obi, has raised concerns over the arrest of Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, by security operatives shortly after hosting him in Kaduna State.

Obi disclosed the development in a statement on Monday, stating that he was informed early in the day that the cleric was arrested by authorities following his visit to Kaduna on Sunday.

“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,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor described the incident as a reflection of broader concerns about civil liberties in the country, warning that actions perceived as targeting individuals for association could undermine democratic principles.

“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,” he stated.

Obi further stressed the importance of protecting constitutional freedoms, noting that democratic systems are defined by the ability of citizens to express themselves without fear.

“This country must defend freedom and free speech, which are the hallmarks of every democratic society,” he said. “Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society, and this Nigerian government must understand this fact.”

Calling for adherence to legal and democratic standards, Obi urged authorities to act within the framework of the law in their dealings with citizens.

“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,” he added.

As of press time, there was no official response from security agencies regarding the arrest or the circumstances surrounding it.

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