Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Supporters’ Harassment, Demands Olawale’s Release

NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has demanded the immediate release of Rilwan Olawale, expressing concern over what he described as the continued intimidation and harassment of his supporters across Nigeria.

Obi made the demand in a statement in which he condemned Olawale’s arrest and called for transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding his detention, respect for his rights and an end to what he characterised as politically motivated harassment.

The former Anambra State governor also criticised President Bola Tinubu, accusing his administration of encouraging or facilitating political violence and warning against actions that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic principles.

“Civility is not weakness,” Obi declared, insisting that his political campaign remained peaceful and focused on presenting Nigerians with an alternative built on competence, accountability, justice and compassion.

He said his movement had deliberately chosen peaceful engagement over violence and persuasion over intimidation, stressing that his supporters would not be silenced by what he described as attempts to intimidate them.

According to Obi, the commitment to peaceful political participation should not be mistaken for fear or a lack of determination to defend democratic rights.

“We will not be intimidated into silence, nor will we abandon Nigerians who believe in a New Nigeria that is possible and will be OK,” he said.

Obi further maintained that every Nigerian had the right to support a political candidate of their choice without fear of harassment or intimidation.

He called for Olawale’s release and urged the relevant authorities to provide clear information about his arrest, ensure that his rights were respected and prevent further incidents of politically motivated harassment.

The former presidential candidate said his supporters would continue to pursue their political objectives peacefully and lawfully, despite what he described as efforts to undermine their democratic freedoms.

“We will remain peaceful but resolute. We will not resort to violence, but we will stand firmly and lawfully against every attempt to undermine our democratic rights,” Obi stated.

He concluded by reaffirming his belief in the possibility of building a new Nigeria, repeating his familiar message that “a New Nigeria is possible and will be OK.”