Peter Obi Unhappy With Recent Security Developments
Labour Party ‘s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has reacted to some of the recent event unfolding in Nigeria, noting that they were beginning to negatively affect the country’s democracy, economy and business environment.
The former presidential candidate, in a statement on Sunday via his 𝕏 account, said some of the actions of security agencies, not only create fear but also risk being mimicked by criminal elements.
Specifically, the former Anambra State Governor referenced the recent arrest of social media commentator, Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), saying the manner in which it was carried out left many Nigerians unsettled.
Peter Obi also raised questions about the effect of such actions on Nigeria’s democracy as touching on the rule of law and respect for human rights.
“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.
“The arrest of Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), though perhaps within the legal rights of security agencies, was carried out in a manner that left many Nigerians unsettled.
“The display of force, lacking in transparency and civility, closely resembled an abduction, a disturbing method that not only creates fear but also risks being mimicked by criminal elements. If Nigerians begin to struggle to distinguish between legitimate arrests and unlawful abductions, we will lose a vital layer of national security and accountability.
“This trend is not new. We must recall that even our esteemed judges, the last line of defence for justice, have suffered similar indignities in recent years. When those who interpret the law are treated with such disregard, it is difficult to expect that ordinary citizens will feel protected under the law,” Obi wrote.
Obi also submitted that the confidence of investors, both local and foreign, might be negatively affected by such happenings, and steps must be taken to avoid actions that undermine the trust of citizens in Nigeria’s economy and business environment.
He called for more civility in the actions of security agencies.
“Moreover, these methods are beginning to affect our economy and business environment. The backlash directed at GTBank, allegedly linked to the circumstances surrounding Mr. Otse’s arrest, has had serious reputational consequences. At a time when investor confidence is already fragile, we must do all we can to avoid actions that tarnish institutions or undermine the trust of both citizens and the international community.
“One cannot help but ask: was it impossible to invite Mr. Otse in a civil, transparent, and legal manner? Would that not have spared Nigerians, GTBank, and our national image the unnecessary shame and losses we now witness?” Obi added
