By David Lawani, Abuja
Rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, using his release from the Kuje Correctional Centre to launch what he described as the next phase of his political struggle.
Sowore, who regained his freedom after spending nine days in custody following the revocation of his bail by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, said his incarceration had only strengthened his resolve to continue campaigning for justice, democracy and political change.
“I am back, and I remain unbroken,” Sowore declared shortly after his release.
The activist described his detention as unjust, arguing that no Nigerian should be imprisoned for exercising constitutionally guaranteed rights or for an offence unknown to law.
“Yesterday, after spending nine days in Kuje Prison following the unjust revocation of my bail by Justice M.G. Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, I regained my freedom,” he said.
Sowore disclosed that he was held alongside more than 1,158 inmates, including 37 prisoners receiving treatment for tuberculosis, which he cited as evidence of the conditions inside the correctional facility.
Reflecting on his latest detention, he said prison had become a familiar experience because of his decades-long involvement in pro-democracy activism dating back to his university days.
According to him, successive governments since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999 have failed to uphold the ideals many activists fought to achieve.
“The Nigerian state has pursued me since my university days when I joined the struggle to end military rule,” he said.
Sowore accused security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), of violating citizens’ rights through arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention and other alleged abuses.
Despite those experiences, he insisted that his commitment to political activism remained unwavering.
He expressed gratitude to supporters across Nigeria and abroad who organised protests and advocacy campaigns demanding his release.
“I extend my deepest appreciation to our revolutionary comrades across Nigeria and around the world who stood resolute, occupied the streets, raised their voices and refused to relent until I regained my freedom,” he said.
Sowore said the support reinforced his belief that Nigerians remain committed to the pursuit of justice and democratic accountability.
He then used the occasion to formally announce the commencement of his campaign for Nigeria’s highest political office.
“The task before us is greater than any individual. The struggle for justice, freedom and the liberation of Nigeria continues. And now, the next major assignment is before us—the Sowore Presidential Campaign 2027. The campaign must go on,” he declared.
His declaration comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with aspirants and political groups already positioning themselves for what is expected to be another fiercely contested presidential race.
