Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly criticised the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Correctional Centre, describing it as a dangerous setback for Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi issued the statement on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, following a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja on Monday, where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s remand pending the hearing of his application for a stay of execution on an earlier order that revoked his bail. The court also rejected Sowore’s request for the judge to recuse himself over alleged bias.
In his reaction, Obi expressed deep concern over what he sees as a growing pattern of using state institutions to suppress dissent.“Sowore being sent to prison: A dangerous regression for democracy. I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said.
He emphasised the need to protect fundamental rights, stating that democracy thrives on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, not on silencing critics.
“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,” he added.
Obi warned that such actions could erode public trust in institutions, especially amid ongoing 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,” he stated.
He urged authorities to uphold constitutional protections and due process, stressing that undermining democratic structures would hinder efforts to build a better Nigeria.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has also criticised Sowore’s detention, arguing it targets the peaceful exercise of his rights.
The case continues to spark debate about judicial independence and civic space in Nigeria.
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