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Lastest News Nigeria, Politics, Business, Sport, Interview
Omoyele Sowore prosecution faces fresh scrutiny as Amnesty International urges Nigeria to withdraw all charges and end judicial harassment.
Omoyele Sowore prosecution has drawn fresh criticism after Amnesty International urged the Nigerian government to immediately withdraw all charges against the activist, journalist and former presidential candidate. The rights group said the Omoyele Sowore prosecution reflects a wider crackdown on journalists, activists and civil society groups in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Amnesty International called on authorities to end what it described as the persecution and judicial harassment of Sowore. The organisation argued that no one should face arrest or prosecution for peacefully expressing opinions or criticising those in power.
Amnesty International Nigeria’s Executive Director, Isa Sanusi, said the case highlights what he described as the misuse of the country’s criminal justice system to silence peaceful dissent. He said citizens must be free to expose alleged wrongdoing and express their views without fear of intimidation or prosecution.
Furthermore, the organisation stressed that public officials should accept public scrutiny. It added that freedom of expression also protects opinions that may “offend, shock or disturb.”
The rights group also questioned the continued involvement of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the case. It argued that security agencies should focus on protecting national security instead of targeting government critics.
According to Amnesty International, Sowore has faced repeated arrests, detention and several criminal proceedings since 2019. The organisation said those actions amount to retaliation for peacefully exercising his fundamental rights.
The Nigerian government has not publicly responded to Amnesty International’s latest statement. Meanwhile, the Omoyele Sowore prosecution continues to attract attention from local and international human rights advocates.
