Omoyele Sowore
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje Correctional Centre, warning that the development could send troubling signals about the state of democracy in Nigeria.
In a statement posted on his X account on Tuesday, Obi described Sowore’s remand as a matter of deep concern and cautioned against any action that could be perceived as using state institutions to suppress dissenting voices and civic engagement.
“I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said.
While acknowledging the role of the judiciary as the final arbiter of justice, the former Anambra State governor stressed the need to protect democratic freedoms and ensure that state institutions are not seen as tools for silencing critics.
“While the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, we must consistently guard against any trend that gives the appearance of state institutions being weaponised to systematically stifle dissent, muzzle the press, or shrink the legitimate space for civic engagement in Nigeria,” he stated.
Obi argued that democracy thrives when citizens are free to express their views and participate in public discourse without fear of intimidation.
“A thriving democracy does not survive on the silencing of opposing voices; rather, it is anchored on the robust protection of fundamental human rights, most notably the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, as enshrined in our Constitution,” he said.
He further noted that Nigeria is already grappling with security challenges and economic difficulties, urging authorities and the courts to act in ways that would not worsen existing tensions.
“Moreover, our society is already strained by insecurity and biting economic hardship; therefore, deliberate steps should be taken, even by the courts, to avoid inflaming the situation,” Obi added.
The former presidential candidate warned against viewing activists, journalists and critics of government policies as enemies of the state, saying such an approach could undermine democratic governance.
“When we begin to treat citizen critics, activists, and journalists as threats to state survival rather than as partners in building accountability, we signal a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism,” he said.
According to Obi, the country’s economic and security challenges require dialogue, inclusion and collective efforts rather than the detention of individuals advocating for change.
“Our current challenges, ranging from economic strain to internal security vulnerabilities, require inclusive dialogue and cohesive nation-building, not the incarceration of those who demand a better society,” he stated.
Obi called on relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law and ensure that Sowore’s constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process.
“I urge the relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law is strictly adhered to, that Mr. Sowore’s constitutional rights are fully protected, and that our security and judicial institutions are used solely for the impartial administration of justice,” he said.
He concluded by stressing that democratic institutions must be strengthened rather than weakened if Nigeria is to achieve meaningful progress.
“We cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all,” Obi added.
