Activist Sowore Remanded in Kuje Prison Over Cybercrime Charges
Omoyele Sowore, activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has been remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja. The order came from the Federal High Court following a cybercrime charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The charge stems from Sowore referring to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal” on social media.
Justice Mohammed Umar revoked the bail that had earlier been granted to Sowore after he failed to show up for a scheduled trial session where he was meant to present his defence. The judge also dismissed a motion that sought his removal from the trial on grounds of alleged bias.
OUR OPINION!
Those celebrating Omoyele Sowore’s remand in Kuje Prison should think twice. The same system they are applauding today could be used against them tomorrow.
Many prominent voices and commentators have warned that prosecuting activists under the Cybercrimes Act for criticising political leaders sets a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
If critics can be arrested, detained, or prosecuted simply for expressing opinions about those in power, then no activist, influencer, journalist, or ordinary citizen is truly safe. Today it may be Sowore; tomorrow it could be someone else.
If Omoyele Sowore is successfully convicted over statements made about President Bola Tinubu, it could open the door for authorities to target other outspoken critics, activists, media personalities, and dissenting voices across the country.
Freedom of expression is not only important when it protects people we agree with. Its true test is whether it protects those whose opinions we dislike.
Think about it. The rights you celebrate being taken from another person today may be the same rights you need tomorrow.
