Tear Gas in the Capital: Peter Obi Decries Crackdown on Peaceful Abuja Protest, Warns of Democratic Backsliding!

Tear Gas in the Capital: Peter Obi Decries Crackdown on Peaceful Abuja Protest, Warns of Democratic Backsliding!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor -in- chief | Sele Media Africa.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the use of tear gas on peaceful protesters in Abuja, describing the incident as a troubling signal of Nigeria’s declining democratic standards and shrinking civic space.

The protesters, drawn from civil society groups and pro-democracy advocates, had gathered to demand the automatic electronic transmission of polling unit results, a reform widely viewed as critical to strengthening transparency, credibility, and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process. The demonstration was reportedly peaceful before security operatives dispersed the crowd with tear gas, prompting public outcry and renewed debate over the state of democratic freedoms in the country.

Reacting to the incident, Obi said the suppression of non-violent civic action undermines constitutional rights and erodes confidence in democratic institutions. He warned that a democracy cannot thrive where citizens are punished for demanding accountability and electoral integrity. According to him, modern democracies are defined not only by periodic elections but by the protection of civil liberties, including the right to peaceful assembly and protest.

Advocates for electoral reform argue that electronic transmission of results from polling units to a central server would significantly reduce manipulation, delays, and disputes that have historically plagued elections in Nigeria. While the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has introduced technological innovations in recent electoral cycles, critics insist that stronger legal and operational guarantees are needed to ensure full transparency.

Human rights groups and political observers have also raised concerns that the forceful dispersal of protesters reflects a broader pattern of intolerance toward dissent, particularly around governance and electoral issues. They caution that such actions risk damaging Nigeria’s democratic image at home and abroad, especially at a time when public trust in institutions remains fragile.

The Abuja incident has reignited national conversations about electoral reform, policing of protests, and the responsibility of the state to safeguard democratic norms. As pressure mounts from political leaders, civil society, and citizens, analysts say the government’s response to these concerns will be a key test of its commitment to democratic accountability ahead of future elections.

Sources:
Premium Times
The Guardian Nigeria
Reuters

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

See author's posts