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Peter Obi Demands Olawale’s Release, Accuses Tinubu of Undermining Democracy

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi has demanded the release of Rilwan Olawale, condemning his allege arrest, describing is as continued harassment and intimidation of his supporters across the country.

26 October 2026 1 Min Read
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Peter Obi and Olawale Rilwan
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Peter Obi and Olawale Rilwan

According to reports, Olawale, an active NDC supporter known on X as @richone090, was allegedly arrested by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives. His whereabouts following the reported arrest have raised concerns among supporters.

According to the statement circulating about the incident, Olawale’s alleged offence was campaigning for Obi in Lagos State and waving the NDC flag.

However, the circumstances surrounding his reported arrest and his current whereabouts have not been independently established.

Obi made the demand in a statement posted on his X account on Monday, October 26, 2026, describing the situation as disturbing and unacceptable.

He accused President Bola Tinubu of undermining democracy by encouraging and facilitating violence, arguing that Nigerians should be free to support candidates of their choice without intimidation.

Obi said his campaign remained peaceful and issue-driven, with a focus on offering Nigerians an alternative built on competence, accountability, justice and compassion.

He warned that his commitment to peaceful political engagement should not be mistaken for weakness or fear, insisting that he and his supporters would not be intimidated into silence.

The NDC presidential candidate, called for transparency regarding Olawale’s reported arrest, demanding his release, respect for his fundamental rights and an end to what he described as politically motivated harassment.

He maintained that no government or political party had the right to deny Nigerians the freedom to support their preferred candidates.

Obi reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful engagement, saying he and his supporters would stand firmly and lawfully against attempts to undermine their democratic rights.

Written bySisan Okotie

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