Opinion: Okai’s Arrest is Unlawful and a Threat to Democracy
Okai was unlawfully arrested, and while some people may celebrate his predicament today, it's important to remember that tomorrow, it could be anyone. Reports suggest that his arrest was due to statements he made on social media. While I do not support unnecessary attacks on the government, I strongly believe that democracy thrives on the freedom to criticize our leaders.
Personally, I consider the current administration an improvement over past ones. However, what makes Nigeria a democracy is the ability of citizens to voice their concerns without fear of oppression. Arresting and silencing critics in Kogi State is not just wrong—it undermines the very principles of governance.
The DSS has a clear mandate: safeguarding national security, not policing political opinions. Unless a statement incites violence, poses a real threat to national security, or qualifies as hate speech under the law, detaining someone for expressing their views is undemocratic.
Unfortunately, human rights violations are rampant in Nigeria. Too often, people in positions of power resort to intimidation, making threats like, "Do you know who I am? I will lock you up. You’ll never see daylight again." These statements expose the dangerous reality that some individuals see themselves as above the law in a country where all citizens should be equal.
History has shown similar instances of abuse, such as Amoka’s crackdown on youth hairstyles in Okene. Instead of being condemned for violating people’s rights, he was praised—an alarming reflection of our tolerance for oppression.
We are not living in a communist dictatorship; Nigeria is a democracy. These issues must be addressed, and our leaders must move away from authoritarian tendencies if we are to build a civilized society where freedom of speech is respected.
If Okai said something wrong, the appropriate response is to sue him in court. If he refuses to appear, only then should a legal arrest warrant be issued. Was he even summoned by a court before his arrest?
This is exactly why Okai must be released—because justice and democracy demand it.
We stand with freedom of speech.
#EbiraOnline
#ebiraonlinemediaOpinion: Okai’s Arrest is Unlawful and a Threat to Democracy
Okai was unlawfully arrested, and while some people may celebrate his predicament today, it's important to remember that tomorrow, it could be anyone. Reports suggest that his arrest was due to statements he made on social media. While I do not support unnecessary attacks on the government, I strongly believe that democracy thrives on the freedom to criticize our leaders.
Personally, I consider the current administration an improvement over past ones. However, what makes Nigeria a democracy is the ability of citizens to voice their concerns without fear of oppression. Arresting and silencing critics in Kogi State is not just wrong—it undermines the very principles of governance.
The DSS has a clear mandate: safeguarding national security, not policing political opinions. Unless a statement incites violence, poses a real threat to national security, or qualifies as hate speech under the law, detaining someone for expressing their views is undemocratic.
Unfortunately, human rights violations are rampant in Nigeria. Too often, people in positions of power resort to intimidation, making threats like, "Do you know who I am? I will lock you up. You’ll never see daylight again." These statements expose the dangerous reality that some individuals see themselves as above the law in a country where all citizens should be equal.
History has shown similar instances of abuse, such as Amoka’s crackdown on youth hairstyles in Okene. Instead of being condemned for violating people’s rights, he was praised—an alarming reflection of our tolerance for oppression.
We are not living in a communist dictatorship; Nigeria is a democracy. These issues must be addressed, and our leaders must move away from authoritarian tendencies if we are to build a civilized society where freedom of speech is respected.
If Okai said something wrong, the appropriate response is to sue him in court. If he refuses to appear, only then should a legal arrest warrant be issued. Was he even summoned by a court before his arrest?
This is exactly why Okai must be released—because justice and democracy demand it.
We stand with freedom of speech.
#EbiraOnline
#ebiraonlinemedia
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