Obi condemns Sowore’s remand, warns against weaponising state institutions

Abdullateef Fowewe

NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi has expressed deep concern over the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison.

The former Anambra State governor in a statement on Tuesday warned that using state institutions to silence critics risks sliding Nigeria toward authoritarianism.

“I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said in the statement.

He urged authorities to respect the rule of law and protect constitutional rights, adding that “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 that the country’s fragile social conditions — including insecurity and severe economic hardship make it especially important for institutions, including the courts, to avoid decisions that could inflame tensions.

“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,” said Obi.

The former Anambra governor further called on relevant authorities to ensure Sowore’s constitutional rights are fully protected and for security and judicial institutions to be used “solely for the impartial administration of justice.”

He added, “We cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all.”