Obi disclosed on Tuesday that the cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, was taken into custody by authorities shortly after receiving him on Sunday.
The former Anambra State governor made the disclosure in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account, describing the development as worrisome and a sign of increasing pressure on civil liberties in the country.
“I have just been made aware early this morning that revered religious leader, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has been arrested by authorities shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday,” Obi wrote.
He said the situation raised serious concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria, particularly regarding the protection of freedom of expression and association.
According to Obi, incidents of intimidation and harassment of citizens or individuals perceived as political opponents pose a threat to democratic governance.
“This development underscores the deeply troubling state of our nation and our democracy, where freedom of speech and movement is increasingly threatened, and where citizens and perceived political opponents face harassment and unnecessary persecution,” he stated.
The former governor stressed that protecting fundamental freedoms is essential for the survival of democracy and urged authorities to respect the rule of law.
He also warned against actions that could weaken democratic institutions and further erode public confidence in governance.
Obi called on relevant authorities to ensure that democratic principles guide their conduct in dealing with citizens.
