presidential candidate Peter Obi, has condemned the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, describing it as a dangerous development that threatens Nigeria’s democracy and warning against the use of state institutions to suppress dissent.
In a statement on Tuesday, Obi said while the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, state institutions must not be perceived as tools for suppressing dissent or shrinking the democratic space.
“I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said.
He warned against any action that creates the impression that government institutions are being used to silence critics, journalists and activists.
“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 said.
Obi stressed that democracy can only flourish where fundamental rights are protected, particularly the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.
“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 stated.
He said jailing government critics sends the wrong message at a time when the country is battling economic hardship and insecurity.
“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,” Obi said.
According to him, Nigeria’s challenges require dialogue, inclusion and nation-building rather than the incarceration of dissenting voices.
“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 added.
Obi called on the authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect Sowore’s constitutional rights.
“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 warning that “we cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all.”