Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has issued a strong warning following a court order that sent activist Omoyele Sowore to Kuje Prison pending bail revocation proceedings. Obi described the development as troubling for Nigeria's democracy, expressing concern over what he called a growing trend in the handling of dissenting voices in the country.
Obi's Reaction to Sowore's Detention
In a statement shared via X on Tuesday, June 23, Obi highlighted the risks of suppressing dissent. Sowore, a human rights activist and former presidential candidate, was ordered to remain in custody pending the hearing of an application seeking to overturn the decision that revoked his bail. He faces charges linked to an alleged August 2025 social media post in which he reportedly referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal”.
Obi said: "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."
Call for Protection of Free Speech
Obi stressed that Nigeria’s Constitution protects freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, and these rights must be defended, especially in a period marked by economic pressure and insecurity. He argued that treating activists and journalists as threats could deepen national tension instead of encouraging dialogue and accountability.
As he put it: "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. 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."
Due Process and Rights Protection
The former governor called for strict respect for due process and urged authorities to ensure that Sowore’s rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings. He emphasised that the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice but warned against any appearance of weaponising state institutions.
Doris Ogala's Reaction
Earlier, a Federal High Court in Abuja remanded Sowore at Kuje Prison after revoking his bail in an ongoing case filed by the Department of State Services (DSS). Sowore, who is facing cybercrime charges, said he was prepared for detention and vowed to continue his activism while awaiting the next hearing scheduled for June 24.
Nollywood actress Doris Ogala criticised the ruling, alleging that the decision to send Sowore to prison was pre-planned. She said: "They already planned this."
