Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has voiced strong concerns over recent developments in Nigeria that he says are undermining democratic values, rule of law, and civil liberties.
In a statement released via Facebook on Sunday, Obi reacted to the controversial arrest of social media activist Martin Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, and the alleged abduction of a factional president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), warning that such actions pose a serious risk to Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Concerns Over Rule of Law and Human Rights.
Obi condemned the method of Otse’s arrest, saying it lacked both transparency and civility. While acknowledging that law enforcement agencies may have acted within their legal mandate, he criticized the approach as excessive and fear-inducing.
“The arrest of Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), though perhaps within the legal rights of security agencies, was carried out in a manner that left many Nigerians unsettled,” Obi stated.
He added that the use of force in this context mirrors tactics commonly associated with abductions, warning that such methods can easily be misused by criminal elements and further blur the line between lawful enforcement and illegality.
Eroding Public Confidence in the Judiciary.
Obi also drew attention to previous cases involving the judiciary, noting a troubling pattern in which legal professionals are subjected to harassment and disrespect.
“Even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities 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 warned.
He emphasized that these trends not only threaten the integrity of the justice system but also erode public trust in state institutions.
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Impact on Economic Confidence.
The Labour Party leader further criticized the reputational damage suffered by institutions like GTBank, which was allegedly linked to Otse’s arrest. According to Obi, such incidents could deter investment and weaken the confidence of both citizens and international stakeholders.
“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 noted.
On the Alleged Abduction of NANS President.
Addressing the alleged abduction of a factional NANS President, Obi described the situation as deeply troubling, raising red flags about the suppression of youth activism and democratic engagement.
“If true, it raises critical questions about the independence of student leadership and the subtle erosion of young voices in our democracy,” he said.
He urged authorities not to normalize the oppression of youth through intimidation, coercion, or political manipulation, insisting that student leaders must be allowed to represent their constituencies without fear.
Call for Justice and National Accountability.
Concluding his statement, Obi called for a return to a just and accountable Nigeria—one where rights are respected, voices are heard, and institutions act responsibly.
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“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. A new Nigeria is possible,” he said.
Peter Obi’s remarks highlight mounting concerns over Nigeria’s democracy, justice, and the protection of human rights. As the country grapples with rising tensions and a deteriorating trust in institutions, Obi’s call for a return to rule of law and accountability underscores the urgent need for reforms to safeguard the future of the nation’s democracy.
