The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed alarm over the remand of activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje Prison.
He warned that the development could indicate a troubling drift toward authoritarianism and pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
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 constitutionally recognised arbiter of justice, public institutions must avoid actions that create the impression of being used to suppress dissent, intimidate critics or restrict civic freedoms.
“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.
The former Anambra State governor argued that democracy flourishes through the protection of fundamental rights and the tolerance of differing opinions, not through the silencing of opposing voices.
He noted that freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly remain central pillars of democratic governance and are guaranteed under the Nigerian Constitution.
“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,” he said.
Obi further cautioned that Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges require inclusive dialogue and collective problem-solving rather than measures that could deepen public distrust.
According to him, the country must guard against any trend that gives the appearance of state institutions being weaponised against critics, warning that such actions could further strain an already tense national atmosphere.
“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.
He called on relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law and guarantee the protection of Sowore’s constitutional rights, insisting that security agencies and judicial institutions must remain committed to the impartial administration of justice.
“We cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all,” Obi stated.
