Human rights activist and #RevolutionNow convener, Omoyele Sowore, has launched a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, condemning what he calls a “relentless persecution” of Nigerians and “frivolous charges” against detained #EndBadGovernance protesters.
Sowore’s comments came in response to a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that granted bail to 10 detained protesters, each to the tune of N10 million. The activists, arrested in Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Gombe for their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protests, have been held in Kuje Correctional Centre since September 2.
“It is a shame that citizens are subjected to the most egregious false charges and detained indefinitely,” Sowore stated, characterizing the charges as spurious and oppressive. He accused the Nigerian government of using “bogus charges” to effectively impose prison sentences during trial stages, knowing there is no evidence of wrongdoing.
The court’s ruling, delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, requires each defendant to provide a surety with landed property in Abuja, submit passport photographs and travel documents, and refrain from participating in any public rally.
Sowore called for accountability, suggesting that unethical judges, prosecutors, and arresting authorities should be punished for what he termed “prosecutorial atrocities.” He specifically mentioned the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the attorney general of the federation.
The activist’s critique comes amid growing concerns over the government’s handling of protests and perceived erosion of civil liberties in Nigeria. Sowore urged for continued resistance, praising the lawyers defending the protesters and calling for dismantling “oppression rooted in Nigerian courtrooms.”
The case has been adjourned to September 27 for the commencement of the trial, with reports indicating that about 49 protesters are still being held in Kuje Correctional Centre.
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