Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has accused President Bola Tinubu of undermining Nigeria’s democracy and demanded the immediate release of NDC supporter Rilwan Olawale.
Obi made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account on Monday while reacting to the reported arrest of Olawale, who is also associated with the Obidient movement.
The NDC candidate described the reported arrest as disturbing and unacceptable, alleging that his supporters had faced continued intimidation and harassment across the country.
Obi accused Tinubu, whom he described as a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s democratic system, of encouraging and facilitating actions capable of undermining democratic values.
He said his campaign remained peaceful and focused on offering Nigerians an alternative based on competence, accountability, justice and compassion.
According to Obi, his supporters had chosen persuasion over intimidation and peace over violence, but he warned that their restraint should not be interpreted as weakness or fear.
He demanded transparency over the circumstances surrounding Olawale’s reported arrest, respect for his rights and his immediate release.
The former Anambra State governor also insisted that Nigerians should be free to support the political candidate of their choice without intimidation.
“No government or political party has the right to deny Nigerians the freedom to support a candidate of their choice,” Obi said.
The NDC candidate further vowed that his campaign would remain peaceful while using lawful means to defend the democratic rights of its supporters.
“We will remain peaceful but resolute. We will not resort to violence, but we will stand firmly and lawfully against every attempt to undermine our democratic rights,” he said.
