Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the just concluded presidential election, has called on the law enforcement agencies to release Nnamdi Chude, a Twitter influencer who was arrested by police in Anambra state.
Chude is a member of the Labour Party’s Obedient movement who was in the forefront of the internet campaign for Obi’s presidency.
He was arrested on Saturday by the Criminal Investigation Department, CID, of Anambra state.
Speaking on the development, the former Governor of Anambra State condemned Nigeria’s declining and poor performance in the rule of law.
Obi blasted those behind the young man’s arrest and detention, saying that political office holders ought to know that there are consequences for actions.
He pointed out that, “With Voice, and Accountability, the No 1 key indicator of good governance, it is very important, particularly for those in authority to note and accept that freedom of expression is a fundamental right and ingredient for the development of a good society.
“While I appreciate that freedom must be exercised in line with the rule of law, arresting Nigerians for tweeting on their leaders and those in authority decimates the opportunity for inclusive governance and accountability which are highly needed in a developing country like Nigeria”.
“For instance, citizens will have their different thoughts on us and we have the right to reply. Arbitrary use of our office or in an unrestrained way will do no one any good, including those in authority.
“As we are all Nigerians and Nigeria is our only country, we must continue to make efforts to build a better Nation where justice, fairness, equity, tolerance, prosperity, accountable leadership and rule of law shall reign with no Nigerian feeling suppressed or oppressed.
“I, therefore, appeal to all concerned to please treat the issue most objectively on rule of law, and compassionately release the young man in question,” he further added.
The arrest of the young man has created backlash, especially from Twitter users who are threatening to stage a protest if Chude was not released.
Professor Charles Soludo, the Executive Governor of Anambra state has dissociated himself from the development, corroborating reports that the Twitter influencer was nabbed by the Interpol Cyber Crime Unit and was sent to Abuja.
The Governor stated that, “The Anambra State Government has no information about the specific allegations or basis of his arrest.”
