Peter Obi condemns arrest of Labour Party Chairman Julius Abure

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, has condemned the arrest of Julius Abure, the national chairman of the party, and Kelly Ogbaloi, the LP chairman in Edo state.

Abure was arrested on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, in Benin City over allegations of attempted murder and conspiracy to commit dangerous harm, but has since been released.

In a post on his official Twitter page, Obi expressed his dismay at the "demeaning and distressing" arrest of Abure.

He described the televised images of the LP chairman's arrest as unacceptable and emphasised the need for civility, decency, and adherence to due process in such situations.

Obi stressed that while constitutional authorities have a duty to carry out their functions, arrests must be conducted with respect for the dignity and rights of citizens, and with adherence to established procedures.

He noted the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence before the law.

As a leader within the Labour Party, Obi highlighted Abure's role as the face of political opposition in Nigeria and stated the need to accord political parties due respect as institutions of democratic statehood.

Obi called for a reevaluation of the circumstances surrounding Abure's arrest and urged for a commitment to civility, decorum, and respect for democratic principles in Nigeria.