Politics
Sowore Condemns Tinubu’s Regime as 75 Protesters Face Treason Trial, Including Minors
Human rights activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has raised concerns over the looming prosecution of 75 Nigerians, including minors, linked to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, on charges of treason.
In a statement, Sowore criticized what he referred to as the “sadistic regime” of President Tpain (Tinubu), condemning the unjust detention of these individuals, many of whom have already spent 80 days behind bars.
The case is set to be heard before Justice Egwuatu on November 1, 2024.
Sowore, a fierce critic of the Nigerian government, called the upcoming trial a “sham” orchestrated to silence the voices of those who speak out against corruption and injustice in the country.
He highlighted that several of those awaiting trial are minors, adding to the gravity of the situation.
“These individuals have been unjustly incarcerated for over two months without due process,” Sowore emphasized.
“Many of them are young people who joined the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, exercising their right to demand accountability, yet they are being treated as criminals.”
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, a broader extension of the #EndSARS protests that rocked Nigeria in 2020, has been calling for comprehensive reform in governance and an end to widespread corruption.
Initially sparked by demands to dismantle the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), the movement has grown into a nationwide outcry against systemic failures in leadership, police brutality, economic hardship, and lack of transparency.
These demonstrations have been met with heavy-handed responses from security forces, and several protesters have faced arrest and detention without trial.
Sowore’s statement paints a grim picture of the state’s response to activism.
He has long been an advocate for civil liberties and was himself arrested multiple times for leading protests and speaking out against the government.
In his recent remarks, Sowore urged the international community to pay close attention to the unfolding events, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is at risk of being completely eroded.
“We are witnessing the erosion of civil rights and freedom of expression in Nigeria.
When peaceful protesters, including minors, are thrown into detention and charged with treason, it’s a clear signal that the government is threatened by the people’s demand for change,” he said.
As the court date approaches, there has been growing concern among civil society groups, activists, and international observers over the fairness of the trial.
Many fear that the charges of treason, a grave offence that can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment, are being used as a tool to intimidate and suppress dissent.
Justice Egwuatu, who is set to preside over the case, is expected to play a key role in determining the fate of the accused.
His rulings in previous high-profile cases have been scrutinized, and this trial is no exception.
Given the high stakes, activists are calling for transparency and due process, stressing that the outcome of this trial could set a dangerous precedent for how peaceful protests and dissent are handled in Nigeria.
The defendants’ legal teams are preparing for what they anticipate will be a politically charged trial.
Several human rights organizations, both local and international, have vowed to closely monitor the proceedings.
Sowore concluded his statement by calling on Nigerians not to lose hope but to remain resilient in their fight for justice.
“This is not just about 75 individuals; it’s about the future of Nigeria. The world must stand with us against tyranny,” he said.
As tensions rise and the country watches closely, the trial on November 1 is expected to ignite further debate on the state of democracy and human rights in Nigeria under the current administration.
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, far from being silenced, continues to inspire protests and calls for change across the country.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has confirmed he will continue to run under the Labour Party banner for the 2027 elections. In a video shared on social media, Obi told supporters, “I will still continue to run in the Labour Party. I’m a member of the Labour Party.”
Obi also blamed ongoing political party crises on the Nigerian government. He explained that these problems are not new but are deliberately caused by the system to weaken opposition. He recalled a similar issue during President Yar’Adua’s time when he personally intervened to resolve disputes involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Today, all parties face problems, and these are created by the system. This is what I want to fix if given the chance,” Obi said. “A strong opposition is key to a functioning democracy.” The former Anambra governor emphasized that Nigerians must take responsibility to ensure free and fair elections.
Obi’s announcement comes as he works alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai to build an opposition coalition. This coalition aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s bid for reelection in 2027. El-Rufai recently confirmed that the group’s goal is to prevent Tinubu from securing a second term and send him back to Lagos.
The Progressive Governors’ Forum has pledged full support to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office. Speaking at the APC National Summit in Abuja, the forum’s chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, urged his fellow governors to take firm control of politics in their states and work to secure victories for the party across all levels.
Uzodimma emphasized that a united and active effort by APC governors will pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also acknowledged the public backing Tinubu has received from APC governors in the North, calling it a strong step toward solidifying the president’s position as the party’s next flag bearer.
According to him, APC governors must promote federal government policies and dominate their political spaces to ensure success in the next general elections. Uzodimma closed his remarks by formally calling on the summit to adopt the position of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in endorsing Tinubu for a second term and committing to deliver that mandate.
The Senate Caucus of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced its readiness to lead a wide political coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, despite the party’s ongoing internal disputes. Speaking at a press conference at the National Assembly on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, Senate Minority Leader Comrade Abba Moro assured supporters that the PDP will overcome its current challenges and come back stronger.
Moro emphasized that internal conflicts are not unique to the PDP. He pointed out that other major parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), are also facing similar struggles. He told journalists, “Despite claims that the PDP is falling apart, the party will rise again and grow even stronger.” Moro encouraged members nationwide to stay committed and loyal, adding that the party’s leadership is planning activities to revitalize the PDP and position it as a strong competitor in future elections.
The caucus also warned against celebrating the weakening of opposition parties, saying such attitudes threaten Nigeria’s democracy by pushing the country towards a one-party system. “Democracy thrives when opposition parties hold the ruling party accountable. Celebrating the decline of other parties does not help democracy,” Moro said.
On the idea of forming a political coalition, the caucus expressed support but stressed it must come from the party itself and not from personal ambitions. Moro noted that as Nigeria’s largest opposition party, the PDP is best placed to lead any coalition efforts. He said, “The PDP’s umbrella is large enough to welcome anyone interested in a coalition. If a coalition is necessary, it should be led by the PDP.”
The caucus concluded by reaffirming the PDP’s strong national presence and its ability to bounce back from current difficulties. “The PDP is a major political force. From today’s challenges, a renewed and energetic party will emerge, ready to offer Nigerians a real alternative,” Moro stated.
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