Peter Obi Criticizes FG Over Continued Arrest of Journalists Exposing Corruption

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned the federal government for the ongoing arrests and detention of journalists in Nigeria who expose corruption.

Obi expressed concern that the federal government’s persistent use of security and intelligence agencies to target investigative journalists risks turning Nigeria into a “Banana Republic.”

He urged the National Assembly to enact a comprehensive Freedom of Information Act to ensure the right of Nigerians to access government information.

Obi argued that the fundamental right to free speech is closely tied to the right to access information regarding government activities.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Obi remarked, “The fundamental right to free speech is inextricably linked to the right to access information about government activities and decision-making.”

He continued, “The alarming trend of government agents suppressing information unrelated to national security or interest underscores the urgent need for the Freedom of Information Bill.

“Citizens rely on journalists and the media to hold those in power accountable, particularly when governments err or overreach.”

Obi emphasized the importance of investigative journalists, who play a critical role in uncovering the truth and are protected by laws upholding freedom of expression in a democratic society.

“It is therefore deeply disturbing and unacceptable that Nigerian investigative journalists have of late been subjected to harassment, abduction, detention, and other draconian measures by agents of the government.”

The former governor of Anambra State further called on the federal government to release PIDOM arrested by police last week. He emphasized that the government must guarantee an open society where citizens must exercise their right to free speech.

“The disappearance and detention of PIDOMNIGERIA, a journalist, is a grave concern Nigerian authorities must be held accountable for his whereabouts and any alleged wrongdoing. If such actions continue, Nigeria risks degenerating into a Banana Republic where journalists are silenced or simply disappear for simply doing their job.

“This is not the Nigeria we want or deserve. We demand justice, accountability, and an end to these egregious attacks on press freedom. We seek an open society in which citizens express themselves freely, have access to unclassified information and in which government is fully accountable to the citizens. These are the minimum requirements of the new society we seek,” Obi added.