Politics

NLC Issues Strong Warning: Free Sowore Without Delay

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on August 8th, 2025.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a firm and urgent call for the immediate release of pro-democracy activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, describing his continued detention as an affront to justice, civil rights, and the democratic principles Nigeria claims to uphold.

In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday, the NLC condemned what it described as “unwarranted harassment” of Sowore by security agencies, insisting that dissent and activism should never be criminalized in a free society.

According to the NLC leadership, the activist’s arrest and detention send a dangerous signal to citizens and the international community, raising concerns over the shrinking space for free speech in the country.

“The prolonged harassment and intimidation of Mr. Sowore represent a grave violation of his constitutional rights,” the statement read. “We remind the authorities that Nigeria is not under military rule and no one should be punished for holding or expressing dissenting views.”

The Congress further warned that continued repression of activists and journalists could push the nation into an era of fear and silence, where only the voices that praise those in power are heard. Such a situation, the NLC argued, would not only weaken democracy but also erode public trust in governance.

Civil society groups and rights organizations have also joined the chorus, demanding Sowore’s release and urging the government to respect court orders. Many view his case as symbolic of broader struggles for freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation in Nigeria.

The NLC concluded its statement with a stern warning: if the government fails to act swiftly, the labour movement will consider mobilizing nationwide protests to defend democratic freedoms and the rule of law.

“The world is watching,” the NLC declared. “Free Sowore without delay, and let Nigeria stand on the right side of hi

story.”