Peter Obi reveals what should have been done to Julius Abure

Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, has voiced his concern over the manner in which security operatives arrested the LP National Chairman, Comrade Julius Abure, in Benin, Edo State, on Wednesday.

In a statement shared on his social media platform, Obi questioned the discourteous approach used during Abure’s arrest, emphasizing that such actions should reflect the civility expected in a democratic society.

Obi stated, “Like many Nigerians, I observed the distasteful national television news reports detailing the humiliating arrest of the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Julius Abure, earlier today in Benin City, Edo State.”

Expressing his dismay over the distressing images of the National Chairman lying on the ground during the arrest, Obi asserted, “This act is undesirable and unequivocally intolerable and must be condemned by any decent and civilized mind within the context of our present civic landscape in Nigeria.”

He continued, “Such behavior must be not only denounced but also actively addressed to uphold the principles of justice and respect within our society.”

Obi stressed the need for security officers to adhere to due process and respect citizens’ rights, stating, “Regarding the circumstances surrounding Mr. Abure’s arrest, it is crucial to emphasize that while constitutional authorities must be allowed to execute their statutory functions, officers must adhere to due process and established arrest procedures, embody civility, decorum, respect for the dignity and rights of citizens, and, above all, the presumption of innocence.”

Emphasizing Abure’s status as a leader within the Labour Party and the importance of allowing political opposition to thrive, Obi urged, “Therefore, I urge that he should be granted bail based on his status while the investigation continues.”