Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the reported arrest of members of the Obidient Movement in Akwa Ibom State following the disruption of a planned political march in Uyo.
According to NewsNGR, Obi reacted on Friday after the arrests of the Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr Ben Smith, and the state coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, Elijah Noah.
The arrests followed a planned “Two Million Man March” in support of Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.
‘Independence means little without freedom’
Obi said Nigerians should be able to express their political views without fear as long as they remain within the law.
“As we continue to reflect on Nigeria’s Independence, we must remember that independence means very little if citizens cannot freely express themselves, within the bounds of the law, without fear,” he said.
He argued that political affiliation should never become a reason for restricting citizens’ rights.
“That must not be the Nigeria we accept,” Obi added.
Police cite security concerns
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command had earlier directed political parties and groups to reschedule rallies and processions planned for October 1.
Police said intelligence indicated that some people could exploit political activities to cause disturbances.
Commissioner of Police Baba Azare said organisers had agreed during a meeting to reschedule the march but some supporters proceeded with it.
Obi maintained that authorities must protect citizens’ constitutional freedoms regardless of their political choices.
