Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre, describing the development as a threat to democratic values and warning against the misuse of public institutions to suppress opposing voices.
Obi’s remarks followed Monday’s ruling by a Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s detention pending the hearing of his application for a stay of execution of a previous order that revoked his bail.
The court also rejected a request seeking the judge’s withdrawal from the case over allegations of bias.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi said the decision raised concerns about the state of civil liberties in the country and the growing pressure on democratic freedoms.
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.
“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 said.
Obi maintained that the strength of any democratic system lies in its ability to protect citizens’ rights, including the freedom to express differing opinions and participate in peaceful civic activities.
“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 added.
He further noted that Nigeria’s current challenges, including insecurity and economic difficulties, make it important for institutions to avoid actions that could heighten public tension or weaken confidence in governance.
“Moreover, our society is already strained by insecurity and biting economic hardship; therefore, deliberate steps should be taken, even by the courts, to avoid inflaming the situation,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor also cautioned against viewing activists, journalists and critics as enemies of the state, warning that such an approach could erode democratic principles.
“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,” Obi stated.
Calling for respect for constitutional rights and due process, Obi said democratic institutions must be strengthened rather than weakened through enforcement actions.
“We cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all,” he said.
Also reacting to the development, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project criticised Sowore’s detention, arguing that he was being punished for peacefully exercising his rights.
The group’s position adds to ongoing concerns over judicial independence and the shrinking civic space in Nigeria.
