Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje Correctional Centre, warning that actions perceived as suppressing dissent could undermine Nigeria’s democratic values.
Based on court proceedings on Monday, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the remand of activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore at the Kuje Correctional Centre pending the hearing of an application challenging the revocation of his bail.
Justice Mohammed Umar also dismissed an earlier request seeking his recusal from the case and adjourned proceedings until June 24.
Sowore’s remand followed a previous court order revoking his bail after he failed to appear for trial in an ongoing cybercrime case.
Obi made his position known in a statement posted on X on Tuesday, where he described the development as a “dangerous regression” for the country’s democracy.
The former Anambra State governor said he received news of Sowore’s remand “with deep concern,” while acknowledging the role of the judiciary in the administration of justice.
“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,” Obi stated.
According to him, democratic societies thrive when citizens are able to freely express their views and participate in public discourse without fear of intimidation.
“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 argued that the country’s current economic and security challenges require efforts that promote unity and dialogue rather than actions that could deepen tensions.
“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 also cautioned against treating critics of government policies as enemies of the state, saying such an approach could signal a drift toward authoritarianism.
“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 said.
He called on the relevant authorities to ensure that Sowore’s constitutional rights are respected and that legal processes are conducted fairly and transparently.
“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,” he stated.
Obi concluded by stressing that democratic institutions must be strengthened rather than weakened, arguing that national progress depends on the protection of civil liberties and the rule of law.
“We cannot build a New Nigeria if we continue to undermine the very democratic structures meant to protect us all,” he said.