By: Odeh Favour Adiya
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the recent court order remanding citizen activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, describing the development as a dangerous regression for the nation’s democracy.
Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) page to bare his mind on the controversial matter, the former Anambra State governor warned that state institutions must not be used to oppress citizens who are merely demanding accountability.
In the statement, Obi noted, “I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison.”
He cautioned that while the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, stakeholders must consistently guard against any trend that gives the appearance of state apparatuses being deployed to crush opposing political views.
According to the NDC flagbearer, “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.”
Lamenting the current socioeconomic realities of the country, Obi pointed out that the Nigerian society is already heavily strained by insecurity and biting economic hardship. He argued that deliberate steps should be taken, even by the courts, to avoid inflaming an already volatile situation.
He further maintained that a thriving democracy does not survive on the silencing of opposing voices, insisting that true democratic growth is anchored on the robust protection of fundamental human rights, most notably the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly, as enshrined in the Constitution.
Warning against a slide into tyranny, Obi stated, “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 noted that the country’s current multifaceted challenges require inclusive dialogue and cohesive nation-building, “not the incarceration of those who demand a better society.”
Rounding off his statement, the opposition leader urged the relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law is strictly adhered to and that Mr. Sowore’s constitutional rights are fully protected.
He insisted that security and judicial institutions must be used solely for the impartial administration of justice, adding that “we cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all.”
