Former APC Spokesman Calls for Sowore's Immediate Release
Former All Progressives Congress Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Timi Frank, has strongly criticised the detention of activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing the action as an attack on democratic freedoms and calling for his unconditional release. Sowore is currently held at the Kuje Correctional Centre following an order by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which directed his remand pending a hearing on an application challenging the revocation of his bail.
Political Motivation Alleged
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Frank argued that Sowore's arrest was unjustified and politically driven. He asserted that the action forms part of a wider effort to silence critics, opposition figures, journalists and civil society groups ahead of the 2027 general elections. "The arrest of Omoyele Sowore is a disgrace and a show of shame by the DSS. It is nothing but political victimisation and a desperate attempt to intimidate opposition leaders and silence voices of dissent in the country," Frank said.
Constitutional Rights Defended
Frank maintained that expressing views on national issues remains a constitutional right and should not attract punishment. "Sowore has not committed any offence. He merely exercised his constitutional right to speak on issues affecting Nigerians. If the government disagrees with his views, it should respond with facts and good governance, not harassment and intimidation," he stated.
Security Agencies Misplaced Priorities
Frank questioned the focus of security agencies, arguing that greater attention should be directed towards tackling violent crimes and insecurity. "It is unfortunate that the DSS seems more interested in going after opposition figures than confronting the bandits and terrorists terrorising innocent Nigerians. This arrest is clearly politically motivated," he said. He also highlighted that many concerns raised by government critics reflect realities such as worsening insecurity and unprecedented economic hardship. "Is it not true that insecurity has worsened? Are Nigerians not facing unprecedented hardship? Why then should anyone be arrested for speaking the truth about the state of the nation?" he asked.
Warning Against Intimidation
Frank warned that intimidation would not discourage citizens from demanding accountability. "No amount of intimidation by the DSS, the police or any other security agency will stop Nigerians from exercising their democratic rights. No amount of harassment will stop citizens from speaking against incompetence, failure and bad governance," he declared.
Appeal to Judiciary and International Community
Frank urged the judiciary to safeguard its independence and appealed to the international community to monitor developments in Nigeria's democratic space. "The judiciary must be careful not to allow itself to be used to undermine democracy. Nigerians are watching and history will judge every institution by the role it plays at this critical moment," he said. He called for Sowore's immediate and unconditional release, insisting that security agencies should remain neutral and focus on their constitutional responsibilities.
