Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has raised concerns over what he describes as a growing disregard for the rule of law, human rights, and democratic principles in Nigeria.
In a statement on Sunday, Obi highlighted recent events that, in his view, signal a troubling trend that could further destabilise the nation and erode public trust in state institutions.
“The recent developments in our nation continue to raise serious concerns about the direction we are headed as a democracy. The tension in the land aggravated by hardship is being needlessly fueled by our attitude to the rule of law and human rights,” Obi said.
He cited the arrest of social media personality Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), as a case in point. While acknowledging that security agencies may have acted within their legal rights, Obi criticised the manner of the arrest.
“The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements. If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability,” he said.
Obi warned that this approach was not isolated, noting that even judges had experienced similar treatment in recent years.
“When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” he added.
The former governor also expressed concern over the impact of such incidents on the economy and business environment. He referred to the backlash faced by Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), which was reportedly linked to Otse’s arrest.
“At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community,” he said.
“One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?”
Obi also addressed allegations of the alleged abduction of the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), warning that such actions could suppress youth voices in the country’s democratic process.
“Nigeria’s youth should not feel coerced, silenced, or absorbed into political agendas that do not reflect their will. The oppression of young voices, whether through force, patronage, or intimidation, is a dangerous path that we must not normalize,” he warned.
Obi called for a recommitment to justice, dignity, and responsible governance. “We must return to a Nigeria where justice is done and is seen to be done without theatrics or abuse. A country where youth can speak freely, judges can serve with dignity, and institutions act responsibly. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild.”
