SOWORE’S REMAND: PETER OBI WARNS AGAINST DANGEROUS REGRESSION IN NIGERIA’S DEMOCRACY

NDC Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reacted to the court order remanding human rights activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, describing the development as a “dangerous regression for democracy” if not carefully handled within the framework of justice and constitutional rights.

Obi, while reacting, noted that although the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, democratic institutions must be careful not to give the impression of being used to silence dissenting voices or restrict legitimate civic engagement.

He stressed that a healthy democracy is sustained not by the suppression of opposing views but by the protection of fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and peaceful assembly as guaranteed by the Constitution.

According to him, Nigeria’s current socio-economic and security challenges make it even more important for state institutions to encourage dialogue rather than actions that could heighten public tension or mistrust.

Obi further warned that treating critics, activists, and journalists as enemies of the state instead of contributors to national accountability could push the country toward authoritarian tendencies.

He called on relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law, insisting that Sowore’s constitutional rights must be fully protected throughout the legal process.

The former Anambra State governor maintained that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful democratic progress if institutions meant to uphold justice are perceived to be undermining the very freedoms they are established to protect.