Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s Independence will have little meaning if citizens cannot freely express themselves without fear, urging leaders to protect the democratic rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
The former Anambra State governor made the remarks in a post on his verified X account on Friday as Nigerians continued activities marking the country’s 66th Independence anniversary.
Reacting to reports that some people in Akwa Ibom State were allegedly arrested for identifying with the Obidient Movement, Obi said the development should concern every Nigerian who believes in democracy and the rule of law.
> “As we continue to reflect on Nigeria’s Independence, we must remember that independence means very little if citizens cannot freely express themselves, within the bounds of the law, without fear,” Obi said.
He added: “Reports that some Nigerians in Akwa Ibom were arrested simply for identifying with the Obidient Movement should worry every Nigerian who believes in democracy and freedom, especially when such identification is a constitutional right.”
Obi also warned that some people who once fought against oppression often change after assuming public office.
According to him, “One of the greatest tragedies of our society is that people who once described themselves as freedom fighters can become defenders of oppression when they eventually occupy positions of authority. Those who once complained about injustice can become comfortable with injustice when it is being perpetrated against people they disagree with. That must not be the Nigeria we accept.”
The former presidential candidate stressed that Nigeria’s independence should stand for freedom, justice and equal rights for all citizens.
He said, “Our independence must ultimately mean freedom from fear, injustice, intolerance and abuse of power. Nigeria must belong to all of us.”