Amanze Chinonye
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Correctional Centre, warning that the development could signal a dangerous regression for Nigeria’s democracy, Prime Business Africa reports.
Obi’s reaction came a day after Sowore was remanded in prison by a court on Monday, June 22, 2026, in connection with an ongoing legal matter.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn a statement issued on Tuesday, Obi said while the judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of justice, Nigerians must remain vigilant against any tendency that could create the impression that state institutions are being used to suppress dissent, silence the media, or restrict civic engagement.
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According to him, democracy thrives on the protection of fundamental rights, particularly 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,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor argued that the country’s prevailing economic and security challenges require caution from all institutions of government, including the courts, to avoid actions that could further heighten tensions.
He warned against treating activists, journalists and government critics as threats to the state, saying such an approach could push the country towards 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,” he said.
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Obi maintained that Nigeria’s economic difficulties and security concerns demand inclusive dialogue and nation-building efforts rather than the incarceration of individuals advocating reforms and accountability.
He urged relevant authorities to ensure strict adherence to the rule of law and guarantee Sowore’s constitutional rights, while stressing 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 added.
The remand order issued on Monday has since sparked reactions from political actors, civil society groups and supporters across the country, with concerns being raised over its implications for civic freedoms and democratic accountability.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
