Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara has called on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately release all individuals arrested during the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest held in Abuja.
Among those detained were Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, and his lawyer, Chief Aloy Ejimakor. Wabara condemned the arrests, describing them as unlawful and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic image.
In a statement issued on Monday, Wabara criticized the security operatives for firing tear gas at peaceful protesters and allegedly assaulting a journalist covering the demonstration. He said such actions portray the country in a negative light before the international community. “The intimidation and arrest of peaceful protesters is a serious dent on Nigeria’s global image,” he said.
The former Senate President urged President Bola Tinubu to caution the security agencies and ensure that citizens’ rights to peaceful protest are respected. He reminded the government that it is the duty of the police to protect protesters and not to attack them. Wabara added that arresting individuals who are expressing their opinions peacefully only worsens the situation in the South East.
Wabara, who currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of attempting to silence opposing voices. He questioned why the APC, which once came to power through protests, is now clamping down on the same democratic rights. “Muzzling dissenting voices is a prelude to dictatorship. This is not the democracy we fought for,” he said.
He urged President Tinubu to consider granting Nnamdi Kanu a political pardon, noting that the government has in the past released convicted criminals and negotiated with armed groups. According to him, releasing Kanu would ease tensions and help restore peace in the South East.
Wabara commended the protesters for remaining peaceful despite provocations and encouraged Nigerians to unite against injustice and the abuse of power. He praised rights activist Omoyele Sowore and others who joined the protest, saying their courage reflects the true spirit of democracy and national unity.