On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has stirred a new wave of discussion after issuing a bold challenge to Southeast political and traditional leaders, urging them to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete action toward securing the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a widely circulated statement on his verified social media page, Sowore declared that he was ready to put aside political differences for one cause, justice.
“I will set aside my differences with some politicians for one cause,” he stated. “I challenge every politician or person of conscience from the Southeast who says they want @MaziNnamdiKanu released to stop the rhetoric. Time for action is NOW. Let’s march to Aso Rock Villa.”
Sowore called for a peaceful, lawful, and visible demonstration involving every category of Southeast leadership, from governors and senators to traditional rulers and clergy, urging them to back their words with action.
“No more empty noise. Let Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Senator Enyi Abaribe, Alex Otti, Peter Obi, and all others who claim to care about Kanu’s freedom, step up and join us in person. We go together, peacefully, legally, and visibly to demand justice and an end to MNK’s persecution. Chikena! Jisie ike!” he added.
The activist’s message has generated significant reactions across social media, with many Nigerians expressing mixed views, some praising his consistency in standing for justice, others questioning the practicality of his call amid heightened political sensitivities.
As of press time, no official responses have been issued by the Southeast governors or key figures mentioned in Sowore’s statement.
Sowore, who has long been an advocate for human rights and civic activism, emphasized that his challenge is not a call for confrontation, but for a unified and lawful demonstration demanding accountability and fairness in the justice system.
Editor’s Note: The quotes in this article are sourced from Sowore’s verified social media posts and have not yet been independently verified by major national media outlets.
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