Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the remand of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre, describing the development as a dangerous setback for Nigeria’s democracy.
Obi’s reaction followed a ruling by a Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s remand pending the determination of his application seeking a stay of execution of an earlier order revoking his bail.
The court also dismissed an application requesting the judge’s recusal over allegations of bias.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi expressed deep concern over the decision, warning that the increasing use of state institutions against dissenting voices could undermine democratic freedoms and civic participation.
“I received with deep concern the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said.
“While the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, we must guard against any trend that creates the impression that state institutions are being weaponised to systematically stifle dissent, muzzle the press, or shrink the legitimate space for civic engagement in Nigeria.”
According to Obi, democracy thrives when fundamental rights are protected and citizens are free to express their views without fear of intimidation.
“A thriving democracy does not survive on the silencing of opposing voices. Rather, it is anchored on the robust protection of fundamental human rights, particularly the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly as guaranteed by our Constitution,” he stated.
The former Anambra State governor cautioned that actions perceived as restricting civic space could further erode public confidence in government institutions at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship and insecurity.
“Our society is already burdened by insecurity and severe economic challenges. Deliberate efforts should therefore be made, including by the courts, to avoid worsening the situation,” he said.
Obi further warned against viewing activists, journalists, and critics of government policies as threats to national stability.
“When we begin to treat citizen critics, activists, and journalists as enemies of the state rather than partners in promoting accountability, we signal a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism,” he added.
He urged authorities to uphold constitutional safeguards and ensure due process, stressing that democratic institutions must not be weakened under the guise of enforcement.
“We cannot build a New Nigeria while undermining the very democratic structures designed to protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens,” Obi said.
