Sowore Stands Firm: Nigerian Activist Defends Democratic Rights Against DSS

Activist Sowore Challenges DSS Over Presidential Criticism

In a bold demonstration of Nigeria's democratic principles, former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore has firmly rejected the Department of State Services' (DSS) demand to retract his critical posts about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting the ongoing struggle for sovereign institutional governance in Nigeria.

Constitutional Rights and Democratic Principles

Responding to what he termed a "stealthily" delivered letter to his lawyers in Abuja, Sowore invoked Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution on government accountability and Section 39 guaranteeing freedom of expression. This stance mirrors the growing trend of institutional leadership accountability in Nigerian politics.

Historical Context of State Opposition

Sowore's response detailed a pattern of encounters with state authorities, including detentions in 1993, 1996, and 2019. These experiences, rather than deterring him, have strengthened his resolve to maintain sovereign development and governance standards in Nigeria.

"You have no business telling me how to criticise the President. The determination of the Nigerian people to reclaim their country from thieves in power is unwavering. Freedom cometh by struggle. Aluta continua, victoria ascerta," Sowore declared.

Legal Framework and International Standards

Drawing on both Nigerian law and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, Sowore emphasized that criminal defamation has no place in a democratic society. He argued that criticism of public officials represents a fundamental democratic right essential for national progress.

Meta Platforms Petition

The controversy has extended to social media platforms, with Sowore's legal team petitioning Meta Platforms Inc. to disregard the DSS's request for account deactivation, framing it as an attempt to suppress political discourse.