The former Anambra State governor stressed that democracy thrives on the protection of citizens' constitutional rights, particularly the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, rather than on the suppression of criticism.
The presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, for the 2027 elections, Peter Obi, has condemned the remand of activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje Correctional Centre.
Obi, in a statement on Tuesday, expressed deep concern over the court's decision to remand Sowore in Kuje Prison, warning that Nigeria must resist any attempt to use state institutions to suppress dissent, intimidate critics, or weaken civic freedoms.
"I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court's remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison," Obi said.
"While the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, we must consistently guard against any trend that gives the appearance of state institutions being weaponised to systematically stifle dissent, muzzle the press, or shrink the legitimate space for civic engagement in Nigeria."
