The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has demanded the immediate release of his supporter, Rilwan Olawale, while accusing the authorities of allowing the intimidation and harassment of people supporting his political movement.
Obi, who described Olawale’s arrest as disturbing and unacceptable, called for transparency over the circumstances surrounding his arrest, respect for his fundamental rights and an end to what he termed politically motivated harassment of his supporters across the country.
In a statement, the former Anambra State governor accused President Bola Tinubu of undermining democratic principles, alleging that the President was encouraging or facilitating political violence despite being a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi maintained that his campaign remained peaceful and issue-driven, promising Nigerians an alternative based on competence, accountability, justice and compassion.
He said his movement had chosen persuasion over intimidation and peace over violence, warning that its commitment to civility should not be mistaken for weakness or fear.
The NDC candidate insisted that no government or political party had the right to deny Nigerians the freedom to support a candidate of their choice.
He vowed that his supporters would remain peaceful but resolute in defending their democratic rights through lawful means, declaring that they would not be intimidated into silence or abandon their vision of a new Nigeria.
Obi reiterated his call for Olawale’s release and urged an end to actions capable of undermining political freedom and democratic participation, expressing confidence that a new Nigeria remained possible.
