Court Order Won’t Stop Sowore’s 2027 Race, AAC Declares

The African Action Congress has restated its support for human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, declaring that he remains the party’s standard-bearer for the 2027 presidential election despite recent legal challenges.

The position was contained in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting involving the party’s leadership, candidates and representatives of the Take It Back Movement. The statement was signed by Acting National Chairman Samuel Ajeigbe and Take It Back Movement National Coordinator Sanyaolu Juwon.

The development followed a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which revoked Sowore’s bail and ordered his arrest after he failed to appear before the court. The court considered his absence a violation of the conditions attached to his bail.

Sowore is currently facing trial over allegations linked to comments he made about President Bola Tinubu on social media. The case had earlier been scheduled for further proceedings before it was postponed following his absence in court.

Reacting to the court order, the AAC argued that the matter extends beyond Sowore as an individual. The party said the situation reflects what it sees as increasing pressure on opposition politicians, activists, journalists, labour leaders and citizens who express views different from those of the government.

According to the party, democracy functions best when people are free to question public officials, challenge policies and offer alternative political ideas without fear of intimidation. It maintained that the ability of citizens to participate freely in politics remains an important part of any democratic society.

The AAC also stated that many of the problems facing Nigerians, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining public trust in governance, remain unresolved. It said these challenges continue to drive demands for political change across the country.

As part of its resolutions, the party pledged to stand by Sowore and defend his rights through lawful means. It also criticised what it described as attempts to use public institutions against opposition voices.

The party directed its structures across the country to begin preparations for rallies, public meetings, protests and other political activities as part of its build-up to the 2027 elections. It also announced plans to expand the distribution of campaign materials and strengthen cooperation with labour groups, student organisations, civil society bodies and professional associations.

AAC further declared that no form of pressure would stop its participation in the next general election. The party said Sowore’s candidacy remains intact and that it will continue to pursue its political goals ahead of the 2027 polls.

The party called on Nigerians from different sectors, including workers, students, youths, women, professionals and civil society groups, to remain involved in the defence of democratic principles and civic freedoms.

In its concluding remarks, the AAC reaffirmed its commitment to political reforms and its campaign for what it described as a better future for Nigerians, insisting that its focus remains on democratic participation and national development.