Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has voiced grave concerns over the state of democracy in Nigeria following recent actions by security forces.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, Obi condemned the arrest of social media activist Martin Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), as well as the alleged abduction of a factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
He warned that the government’s approach to these events could have dangerous consequences for democratic governance and national stability.
“These developments are deeply troubling,” Obi wrote. “The rising tensions in our country, intensified by economic hardship, are being made worse by how we disregard the rule of law and human rights.”
While noting that security agencies may have operated within legal limits, Obi criticized the aggressive and opaque manner of Otse’s arrest, comparing it to a kidnapping.
“When arrests start to resemble abductions with no transparency or basic decency they sow fear and confusion,” he stated. “Even worse, such tactics could be imitated by criminals, making it harder to distinguish between lawful enforcement and criminal activity.”
He underscored the need to maintain clear boundaries between law enforcement and arbitrary power, saying that failure to do so undermines both public trust and national security.
Obi also referenced previous instances of intimidation against judicial officers, noting, “If our judges who are supposed to safeguard justice face threats, how can ordinary citizens feel safe under the law?”
On the public backlash faced by GTBank, reportedly linked to Otse’s arrest, Obi warned of reputational damage and broader economic consequences.
“At a time when our economy is already struggling, actions like these can deter investor confidence. We must ensure that institutions are protected from political interference and abuse of power,” he said.
Obi questioned why Otse couldn’t have been approached in a more transparent and respectful manner for questioning.
On the Alleged Abduction of a NANS Leader
Obi also addressed the reported disappearance of a student leader from the NANS, describing it as equally disturbing.
“If true, this development raises serious concerns about the autonomy and safety of student leaders. Our young people should not be silenced or forced into political agendas they don’t support.”
He stressed that intimidation, coercion, or the suppression of dissent especially among the youth must not become normalized.
Obi concluded with a firm call for accountability and respect for democratic principles.
“We must build a Nigeria where justice is visible and real, where young voices are heard, judges are honored, and institutions act with integrity. That is the vision of the new Nigeria we must pursue.”
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