Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the arrest of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore by the Nigeria Police, describing it as a “new low” and a blatant assault on democracy.
In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, Atiku expressed shock and disappointment over the development, noting that Sowore’s arrest inside a courtroom represents the government’s growing disregard for the rule of law.
“I am shocked and disappointed, but not surprised. Shocked that in 2025, decades after we defeated military rule, this government still treats dissent as a crime. Disappointed because those in power today once thrived on protests. But not surprised, for Bola Tinubu continues to show Nigerians exactly who he is and what he intends to be, if we allow him,” Atiku said.
The former Vice President also condemned the arrest of other peaceful protesters across the country, insisting that protest remains a constitutional right and not a criminal act.
“Sowore’s arrest inside a courtroom is a new low, an open assault on democracy and a grave symbol of this administration’s contempt for the rule of law. Protest is not a crime; it is a constitutional right,” he stated.
Atiku demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Sowore and all citizens detained during or after the demonstrations, calling on the government to stop harassing dissenting voices.
“Democracy cannot coexist with tyranny,” Atiku declared.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
