DLA condemns Sowore’s bail revocation, incarceration

The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has condemned the revocation of the bail granted to the African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate and activist, Omoyele Sowore, describing his subsequent incarceration as a development capable of undermining democratic freedom and shrinking the space for dissent in Nigeria.

In a statement signed on Monday by its National Chairman, Samuel M. Memeh, the party said it received with “profound concern” the outcome of the recent court proceedings involving Sowore and called for greater tolerance of opposing views in the country’s democratic process.

The alliance said although it remained committed to the rule of law and respected the constitutional role of the judiciary, it disagreed with the decision that led to Sowore’s imprisonment.

“The Democratic Leadership Alliance respectfully disagrees with the decision that resulted in Mr. Sowore’s incarceration,” the statement said.

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According to the party, the circumstances surrounding the case raise concerns about proportionality, democratic tolerance and the broader public interest, particularly at a time when the country is grappling with worsening insecurity and economic challenges.

“At a time when Nigeria is confronted by widespread insecurity, escalating kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, economic hardship and deepening poverty, it is difficult for many Nigerians to understand why one of the country’s most vocal activists and opposition leaders should be sent to prison over matters arising from political expression and criticism of government,” the statement added.

The DLA warned that the revocation of Sowore’s bail could fuel public concerns over what it described as a shrinking democratic space.

“The revocation of Mr. Sowore’s bail and his subsequent incarceration will inevitably generate concerns among citizens regarding the shrinking space for dissent and criticism in our democracy,” it said.

The party stressed that democratic governance requires the protection of citizens’ rights to question authority, challenge government policies and hold public officials accountable.

“Whether one agrees with his views or not, democracy requires the protection of the right of citizens to question authority, challenge government policies, and hold leaders accountable,” it stated.

The alliance further argued that criticism should not be met with suppression but with improved governance and accountability.

“The answer to criticism is not suppression; the answer is better governance, greater accountability, and improved service delivery to the people,” the statement said.

The DLA called on the judiciary to remain committed to fairness, impartiality and constitutional democracy, while urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Attorney-General of the Federation and other authorities to demonstrate greater tolerance for dissenting opinions.

The alliance maintained that addressing Nigeria’s security crisis would require a combination of effective security operations, economic development, job creation, intelligence gathering, anti-corruption measures and social investment.

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