Sowore Decries Nigeria’s ‘Painful Decline’, Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
By Passman Akpos
Human rights activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has lamented what he described as Nigeria’s painful tendency to “break the spirit of even its most hopeful citizens,” turning patriots into cynics and optimists into disillusioned citizens.
In a post shared on social media, Sowore reflected on an old video of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, speaking passionately in London about his vision for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria. According to Sowore, the clip “captures the tragedy” of a nation that silences those who dream of progress and justice.
> “He genuinely wanted a united and prosperous nation,” Sowore wrote. “But the criminals in power would not allow that vision to thrive. They saw unity and truth as threats.”
The activist accused Nigeria’s political elite of persecuting Kanu for his outspokenness, noting that his family, friends, and associates suffered dearly in the struggle. He added that Kanu’s current trial on terrorism charges was “a sham designed to silence dissent.”
Sowore emphasized that Kanu’s initial advocacy was not aimed at destroying Nigeria but saving it from corruption, division, and insecurity. However, he said, when it became clear that the ruling class preferred “corruption and division over justice and progress,” Kanu redirected his efforts toward the dream of a “free and prosperous Biafra.”
He further drew a striking contrast between Kanu’s ordeal and the fate of insurgents in the country, saying:
> “Ironically, the same Boko Haram elements he once denounced have now become kings, emperors, and billionaires, while a man who demanded accountability and national security remains in chains.”
Sowore concluded his post with a renewed demand for the immediate release of the IPOB leader, using the hashtag #FreeNnamdiKanuNow.
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya. His prolonged detention has continued to generate debates over human rights, justice, and the future of Nigeria’s unity.
