Sowore’s Remand a Dangerous Regression for Democracy – Obi

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, warning that any perception of state institutions being used to suppress dissent could pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic development.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi said he received news of Sowore’s remand “with deep concern,” stressing that while the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, democratic institutions must avoid actions that create the impression of being deployed to silence critics or restrict civic participation.

The former Anambra State governor cautioned against what he described as a shrinking space for legitimate civic engagement, noting that democracy thrives on the protection of constitutional freedoms rather than the suppression of opposing views.

“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 said.

His comments came amid growing public debate surrounding Sowore’s remand and its implications for civil liberties, political dissent and freedom of expression in the country.

Obi argued that Nigeria’s current realities, including economic hardship and persistent insecurity, require caution from all institutions of state to avoid actions that could heighten public tension.

“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 stated.

Obi further warned that treating activists, journalists and government critics as adversaries rather than stakeholders in democratic accountability could signal a troubling shift away from democratic norms.

“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 said.

According to Obi, Nigeria’s economic and security challenges can only be effectively addressed through dialogue, inclusion and collective nation-building rather than the incarceration of individuals advocating reforms.

“Our current challenges, ranging from economic strain to internal security vulnerabilities, require inclusive dialogue and cohesive nation-building, not the incarceration of those who demand a better society,” he added.

The former presidential candidate called on relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law and guarantee the protection of Sowore’s constitutional rights.

He also urged security agencies and judicial institutions to remain impartial and committed solely to the administration of justice.

“I urge the relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law is strictly adhered to, that Mr. Sowore’s constitutional rights are fully protected, and that our security and judicial institutions are used solely for the impartial administration of justice,” Obi said.

Reaffirming his vision for national renewal, he maintained that democratic institutions must be strengthened rather than weakened if Nigeria is to achieve meaningful progress.

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