Peter Obi To Tinubu: Is Kuje Prison Now The Reward For Speaking Truth To Power?

By Passman Akpos

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, , has strongly condemned the remand of activist and former presidential candidate at the , describing the development as a “dangerous regression for democracy” and warning against what he called the growing use of state institutions to suppress dissenting voices in Nigeria.

Obi’s reaction follows a ruling by the in Abuja on Monday, where Justice Mohammed Umar ordered Sowore’s remand pending the hearing of his application seeking a stay of execution of an earlier order revoking his bail

The court also dismissed an application requesting the judge’s recusal over allegations of bias.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Obi expressed deep concern over the development, saying it reflects a troubling trend that could threaten democratic freedoms if left unchecked.

“Sowore being sent to prison is a dangerous regression for democracy. I have received, with deep concern, the news of the court’s remand of citizen activist Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison,” Obi stated.

While acknowledging the role of the judiciary as the final arbiter of justice, Obi cautioned against actions that could create the impression that government institutions are being used to silence critics and shrink 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 said.

Obi stressed that democracy thrives when citizens are free to express their views and hold leaders accountable.

“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 added.

The former Anambra governor further warned that increasing pressure on activists, journalists, and critics could deepen public distrust in government institutions, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship and worsening insecurity.

“Moreover, our society is already strained by insecurity and biting economic hardship; therefore, deliberate steps should be taken, even by the courts, to avoid inflaming the situation,” Obi stated.

He also cautioned against viewing government critics as enemies of the state, arguing that accountability and constructive criticism are essential pillars of democratic governance.

“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 warned.

Obi called on authorities to uphold constitutional safeguards and ensure due process in all legal proceedings, insisting that democratic institutions must remain committed to protecting citizens’ rights.

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

The remarks have added to the growing national debate surrounding Sowore’s detention, with supporters and critics alike weighing in on the implications of the case for civil liberties, free speech, and democratic governance in Nigeria.