Ajadi Urges Federal Government to Refrain from Arresting Sowore; Give Reasons
Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a prominent member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has urged the Federal Government to avoid arresting Omoyele Sowore, a key figure in the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, upon his return to Nigeria.
Reports have surfaced suggesting that the newly appointed Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Adeola Ajayi, has instructed security personnel at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to apprehend Sowore when he arrives. In response, Ajadi issued a statement on Thursday, arguing that such a move would be inconsistent with democratic principles.
Ajadi cautioned that the current administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should not revert to the repressive tactics of previous military regimes, where individuals were detained arbitrarily. He also advised the DSS to exercise restraint, especially if Sowore’s supporters are present at the airport, as this could lead to potential conflicts.
“Peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic society,” Ajadi emphasized. “The right to express dissent against perceived poor governance is protected by our constitution. Arresting Sowore, who has been an advocate for human rights and was not involved in any violent acts during the protests, would undermine democratic values.”
Ajadi reminded President Tinubu and his administration that democracy is defined as government by the people, for the people, and of the people. He urged that the government must be accountable and that Sowore, a former presidential candidate and human rights activist, should not be treated as a criminal.
He also noted that attempting to arrest Sowore amidst his supporters at the airport could lead to unrest and advised the DSS to act within legal boundaries. “We should not make Nigeria a subject of ridicule among the international community,” Ajadi said. “The government must allow citizens to peacefully voice their grievances without fear of arbitrary arrest.”
Ajadi, who was the NNPP gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 elections, concluded by calling for adherence to the rule of law and respect for democratic freedoms.
