Peter Obi, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, has alleged that a Kaduna-based cleric, Ahmad Tijjani Umar, was arrested shortly after hosting him during a recent visit to Kaduna.

Obi made the allegation in a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, expressing concern over what he described as growing intimidation of citizens and perceived political opponents in the country.

According to him, the cleric was taken into custody by authorities shortly after hosting him on Sunday.

He said: “I was informed early this morning that revered religious leader, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, has been arrested by authorities shortly after hosting me in Kaduna on Sunday.”

The former presidential candidate described the development as disturbing, warning that such actions threaten democratic values and fundamental freedoms.

He stressed that freedom of speech and movement remain essential pillars of democracy and should not be undermined through harassment or intimidation.

Obi further called on relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law and avoid actions capable of weakening democratic institutions.

“Suppression and intimidation of dissent can never stand in a democratic society, and government must understand this,” he added.

However, the Nigeria Police Force said it had no official information regarding the alleged arrest.

The command’s spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, said he had not been briefed on the matter.

“I am just hearing it from you. Go and make your findings,” he said.

So far, no security agency has officially confirmed responsibility for the alleged arrest.