“Bail Granted, But Sowore’s Fight for Nigeria’s Welfare Rages On”
Omoyele Sowore, the former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), recently took aim at former Governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna and Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers, labeling them as “emergency activists.” His remark came after both men, who have distanced themselves from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The outspoken human rights activist shared his views in a video posted on his X handle Friday, following his release on bail, granted by a judge on Thursday. Addressing a group of journalists, Sowore emphasized his unwavering commitment to the well-being of Nigeria’s citizens, asserting that his activism stems from a deep-rooted conviction, not political timing.
“The judge granted bail after the hearing yesterday, and the conditions are very straightforward, so I’ll leave it to the lawyers,” Sowore began. “But what I want to make clear is that we are fully dedicated to freeing this country from the hands of mediocre leaders who are holding it hostage. Our focus is on the people’s welfare.”
Sowore went on to differentiate his activism from the recent criticisms of El-Rufai and Amaechi, declaring that his fight for justice isn’t driven by the election calendar. “We don’t do this because elections are coming. We are not like the emergency activists who just began speaking up yesterday. We do this because we believe in it. It’s not about elections; it’s about righting the wrongs of this country.”
He also addressed concerns over his passport, a matter raised by the police during his court proceedings. “They can take my passport, but they can never take away my right or silence me,” he declared firmly.
The Abuja Federal High Court had previously ordered Sowore to meet his bail conditions within 24 hours. He was granted bail set at N10 million, with one surety in like sum, following his arraignment on cybercrime charges before Justice Musa Liman.
