Peter Obi on Sowore Remand: Labour Party leader warns against actions that could undermine civil liberties and democratic accountability

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Tuesday expressed concern over the remand of activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore in Kuje Prison, Abuja, warning that any perception of state institutions being used to suppress dissent could undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress.

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Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, made the remarks in a statement amid growing public debate over Sowore’s remand and its wider implications for civil liberties, freedom of expression and democratic accountability in Nigeria.

The Labour Party leader said he received news of Sowore’s remand “with deep concern,” while emphasising that the judiciary remains the constitutionally recognised arbiter of justice.

However, Obi cautioned that democratic institutions must exercise care to avoid creating an impression that they are being deployed to silence critics or restrict legitimate civic engagement.

“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,” Obi said.

The statement adds to a broader national conversation about the balance between law enforcement, judicial processes and the protection of constitutional freedoms in a democratic society.

In recent years, issues surrounding the treatment of activists, journalists and political critics have frequently generated public discourse, with civil society organisations often urging authorities to safeguard civic space and uphold democratic norms.

Speaking on the current situation, Obi argued that Nigeria’s existing challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity, require restraint and sensitivity from all institutions of government.

“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,” he stated.

The former presidential candidate also warned against viewing activists and government critics as enemies of the state, describing such an approach as potentially harmful to democratic development.

“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,” Obi said.

The comments reflect longstanding arguments by democratic advocates that dissent and constructive criticism are essential components of accountable governance and institutional transparency.

Underlining the need for dialogue, Obi maintained that Nigeria’s economic and security difficulties would be better addressed through inclusion and national consensus rather than the detention of individuals advocating reforms.

“Our current challenges, ranging from economic strain to internal security vulnerabilities, require inclusive dialogue and cohesive nation-building, not the incarceration of those who demand a better society,” he added.

Through his statement on the matter, Obi called on relevant authorities to ensure that legal processes are conducted fairly and in accordance with constitutional provisions.

“I urge the relevant authorities to ensure that the rule of law is strictly adhered to, that Mr. Sowore’s constitutional rights are fully protected, and that our security and judicial institutions are used solely for the impartial administration of justice,” he said.

The former governor further stressed that strengthening democratic institutions remains essential to achieving meaningful national development.

Reaffirming his long-held vision for political and social reform, Obi argued that Nigeria’s aspirations for progress must be built on respect for democratic principles and the rule of law.

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

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The development comes as stakeholders across the political spectrum continue to monitor the legal proceedings involving Sowore, with many calling for due process, transparency and respect for constitutional rights throughout the judicial process.