Peter Obi voices concern over arrest of VeryDarkMan

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed grave concern over recent developments in Nigeria, warning that such incidents threaten the foundations of the country’s democratic values.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Sunday, Mr Obi reacted to the public unease following the arrest of popular social media activist Martin Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, as well as the alleged abduction of a factional President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

He stated: “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 fuelled by our attitude to the rule of law and human rights.”

Mr Obi criticised the manner in which Mr Otse was apprehended, noting that although security agencies may have acted within their legal remit, the operation lacked transparency and civility. He described the process as resembling an abduction rather than a lawful arrest, a trend he warned could embolden criminal elements to replicate such tactics.

“If Nigerians cannot tell the difference between a legal arrest and a kidnap, then we are risking the erosion of a vital part of our national security and public confidence,” he cautioned.

The former Anambra State Governor also referenced past incidents involving members of the judiciary, arguing that when judges, the guardians of justice, are treated without due regard, it becomes increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to place their trust in the justice system.

He further highlighted the economic implications of such actions, referencing the public backlash against Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), which was reportedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr Otse’s arrest. Mr Obi warned that such occurrences could damage the reputation of institutions and diminish investor confidence in Nigeria.

He questioned whether a more civil and transparent approach could have been employed, one that would have avoided harm to individuals, institutions, and the country’s international image.

Speaking on the alleged abduction of the NANS factional president, Mr Obi described the incident as equally troubling. He emphasised that, if proven true, it raises serious concerns about the autonomy of student leadership and the suppression of youthful voices in the country’s democratic discourse.

He warned against the normalisation of youth oppression through intimidation, political patronage, or violence.

Concluding, Mr Obi reiterated his call for a just and accountable Nigeria where justice is not only delivered but demonstrably seen to be done. “We must build a country where youth can speak without fear, judges can serve with honour, and institutions operate with responsibility. That is the Nigeria we must rebuild. A new Nigeria is possible,” he affirmed.