Demolish looters’ assets like kidnappers’ hideouts, Sowore seeks equal penalty

Omoyele Sowore, an activist and presidential candidate, is demanding that the federal government apply the same stringent measures against kidnappers' hideouts to the luxurious mansions of politicians and public officials accused of embezzling public funds. Sowore argues that looting the public treasury is a severe form of kidnapping that deprives millions of Nigerians of essential services.

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There is no reason why the demolition of houses should be limited only to kidnappers.

In a statement posted on his X handle, Sowore asserted that if the government believes properties used for criminal activity should be destroyed, this principle must apply equally to all offenders. "Public treasury looting is a form of kidnapping too, it kidnaps healthcare, education, jobs, infrastructure, and the future of millions of Nigerians," he stated.

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If the government truly believes that property acquired through or used for criminal activity should be destroyed immediately, then the same principle must apply to politicians.

Sowore's call comes in response to the Oyo State Government's demolition of a building in Ibadan. The structure was allegedly used as a hideout by kidnappers who abducted Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul, sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, along with her twin sons. The building was pulled down less than 48 hours after the victims' rescue. The state government described the action as part of its zero-tolerance stance against criminality.

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Public treasury looting is a form of kidnapping too, it kidnaps healthcare, education, jobs, infrastructure, and the future of millions of Nigerians.