Sowore's Remand Dangerous for Democracy, Says Peter Obi

Presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the remand of activist Omoyele Sowore, describing the court's decision as a "dangerous regression for our democracy." Obi expressed deep concern over the trend of state institutions being allegedly weaponized to stifle dissent and limit civic engagement in Nigeria.

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Sowore being sent to prison: A dangerous regression for democracy.

Sowore was ordered remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre pending the determination of his application to stay the execution of an order revoking his bail. A Federal High Court in Abuja also dismissed an application seeking the judge's recusal due to alleged bias. Obi stated that while the judiciary is the ultimate arbiter, it is crucial to guard against any actions that appear to suppress legitimate civic space.

"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," Obi asserted. He warned that continued pressure on civic space could erode public trust in state institutions, particularly during times of economic hardship and insecurity.

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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.

Obi cautioned authorities against viewing critics as threats to national stability. "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. He urged strict adherence to constitutional protections and due process, emphasizing that Nigeria's democratic institutions must be strengthened, not weakened, in the name of enforcement.

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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.