The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has asked the Federal Government to immediately free activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and withdraw the criminal defamation and cybercrime charges filed against him.
The call came after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered Sowore’s remand at the Kuje Correctional Centre. The court decision followed proceedings in a case involving allegations brought against him by the Department of State Services.
Justice Mohammed Umar ordered that Sowore remain in custody pending the hearing of an application linked to the revocation of his bail. The court also rejected a request seeking the judge’s withdrawal from the case over claims of bias.
Reacting to the development, SERAP said it was worried about what it described as increasing pressure on freedom of expression, media freedom and the rights of citizens to peacefully express their views. The organisation maintained that Sowore’s detention was connected to comments he made while exercising his rights as a journalist and activist.
According to the group, criminal defamation and cybercrime laws should not be used to punish journalists, activists, bloggers or human rights defenders for carrying out their work. SERAP argued that people should not face arrest or detention simply because they express opinions or criticise public officials.
The organisation stated that public officers in democratic societies are expected to accept public scrutiny and criticism. It added that legal actions should not be used to discourage citizens from participating in public discussions or questioning government actions.
SERAP also expressed concern about what it described as growing cases of harassment, intimidation and legal pressure against journalists and activists. The group warned that such actions could create fear among people who wish to speak on matters of public interest.
The rights organisation urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to ensure that citizens can freely express their views, associate with others and participate in peaceful activities without fear of arrest or punishment. It also called on authorities to uphold the rule of law and respect constitutional rights.
In addition, SERAP urged the government to review laws such as the Official Secrets Act, the Criminal Code Act and the Cybercrime Act. The organisation said some provisions in those laws could affect freedom of speech and press freedom and should be brought in line with international human rights standards.
Sowore is facing prosecution by the Department of State Services over allegations of criminal defamation linked to social media posts in which he reportedly described President Bola Tinubu as a criminal. He has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty.
Following Monday’s court proceedings, some of Sowore’s supporters also alleged that DSS operatives attempted to take him into custody within the court premises after the remand order was issued. The case is expected to continue as legal proceedings move forward.