Obi Warns Sowore Remand Signals Dangerous Slide Toward Authoritarianism

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, describing the development as a troubling sign for Nigeria’s democratic trajectory.

Obi said in a statement he shared via X on Tuesday that he received the news of Sowore’s remand “with deep concern,” while stressing that although the judiciary remains the final arbiter of justice, democratic institutions must be careful not to appear to suppress dissent.

“I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi said.

He cautioned against what he described as a growing pattern where state institutions could be perceived as being used to silence critics and restrict civic space.

“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,” he stated.

Obi further argued that a functioning democracy depends on protecting civil liberties, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, which are guaranteed under the 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.

He added that Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges require inclusive governance and dialogue rather than actions that could heighten tension in the country.

“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 warned.

According to him, the situation calls for restraint by institutions of state, including the judiciary, to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.

“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 said.

Obi urged authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law and protection of Sowore’s constitutional rights throughout the judicial process.

“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 said.

He warned that Nigeria’s democratic future depends on strengthening institutions rather than weakening civic freedoms.

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

Sowore, a presidential candidate of African Action Congress (AAC) was on Monday remanded by the Federal High Court in Abuja in Kuje Prison pending further proceedings over alleged cybercrime offences.