By The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTION) has condemned the continued detention of activist and presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing his incarceration as a serious threat to democracy and civic freedoms in the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Convener, Hauwa Mustapha, the group said Sowore’s continued detention following the revocation of his bail by the Federal High Court in Abuja raises concerns about the protection of fundamental rights and the shrinking of civic space in Nigeria.
According to MOTION, the case extends beyond the legal challenges facing one individual and reflects broader concerns over freedom of expression, political participation and the treatment of dissenting voices.
”MOTION views this development not merely as a legal matter concerning one citizen, but as a dangerous escalation in the shrinking of civic space in Nigeria” the group said.
The organisation argued that the use of security agencies and judicial processes in ways perceived to target critics could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions and discourage citizens from speaking out on issues of public interest.
MOTION further warned that the development could create an atmosphere of fear in which journalists, activists and other citizens become reluctant to express their views or participate in civic activities.
”MOTION is deeply concerned that this development further reinforces a climate of fear in which citizens may begin to self-censor, journalists may hesitate to publish critical reporting, and activists may retreat from public engagement for fear of arrest or prolonged legal persecution” Motion added.
The group maintained that the detention undermines freedom of expression, erodes confidence in the independence of democratic institutions and narrows civic space for opposition figures, youth groups and civil society organisations.
It also urged the Federal Government to respect constitutional rights and ensure that public institutions are not used to suppress dissent. The organisation called on the judiciary to uphold due process and maintain its independence, while asking security agencies to refrain from actions capable of criminalising civic engagement.
”The Nigerian state has both a constitutional and moral obligation to uphold the rights guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and under regional and international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a signatory,” the statement read.
MOTION also appealed to civil society organisations, labour unions, student groups, pro-democracy advocates and the international community to remain vigilant and continue speaking against actions it said could encourage authoritarian tendencies.
Reaffirming its solidarity with Sowore and other citizens facing intimidation over their views, the group insisted that protecting individual liberty is essential to safeguarding democracy.
”MOTION stands in solidarity with all citizens, activists, journalists, and human rights defenders facing intimidation for exercising their democratic rights” the noted.
