Sowore Vows to Return to Nigeria, Criticizes Tinubu Government for Misplaced Priorities
Omoyele Sowore, the prominent human rights activist and convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, has vowed to return to Nigeria soon, despite facing an active arrest warrant. The outspoken former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) has criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing his arrest over the capture of terrorists, bandits, and other criminals causing insecurity in the country.
DSS Directive for Sowore’s Arrest
SaharaReporters earlier revealed that the Department of State Services (DSS) had issued a memo ordering the immediate arrest of Sowore upon his arrival in Nigeria. The memo, signed by Adeola D. Ali for NISEC NHSS, instructs airport security and immigration officials to intercept and detain him. The directive, issued by the newly appointed DSS Director General, Adeola Ajayi, stems from Sowore's involvement in the recent 10-day #EndBadGovernance protests. The protests called for accountability and action against rising poverty and poor governance in Nigeria.
Criticism of Government’s Inaction on Terrorists and Corruption
In response to the arrest order, Sowore, who is currently residing in the United States with his family, condemned the Tinubu administration for what he sees as a failure to address the nation's real security threats. According to Sowore, the government has been inefficient in tackling terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry, which have continued to ravage the country. He pointed out the contradiction in the government's focus, lamenting that while efforts are directed toward arresting him, figures like Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, who is wanted for money laundering, remain free.
Sowore took to social media to express his frustration, writing, "The current administration, led by Tinubu, has demonstrated an upgraded inability to effectively track and apprehend terrorism suspects, bandits, and kidnappers, while the EFCC has yet to arrest former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello."
DSS Watchlist and Sowore’s Determination to Return
Sowore also mocked the DSS for placing him on their watchlist, a move he called an "upgrade" to his status. He described the government's actions as indicative of a skewed focus on silencing those who demand accountability rather than dealing with corruption and crime. Despite the looming threat of arrest, Sowore remains resolute in his commitment to return to Nigeria and continue his fight for justice and good governance.
In his words, “Nothing can stop an idea whose time has come! I intend to return home shortly, I mean very soon." He reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria is in dire need of salvation and liberation, which he said will require sustained and significant effort.
A Call for Justice and Good Governance
Sowore’s criticism of the government highlights the ongoing struggle between activists advocating for good governance and the state apparatus often used to suppress dissent. As Sowore prepares to return to Nigeria, the focus will be on whether the Tinubu administration prioritizes addressing the country’s pressing issues—such as insecurity and corruption—or continues its pursuit of perceived political adversaries.
By standing firm in his convictions and vowing to return despite the personal risks, Sowore remains a key figure in Nigeria's ongoing battle for democracy, accountability, and justice.
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