By Mariam Abeeb
A coalition of civil society organisations on Wednesday called on the Department of State Services to immediately arrest and prosecute human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, over allegations that his recent public remarks and activities constitute a threat to Nigeria’s national security.
The coalition, under the aegis of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Good Governance in Nigeria, made the demand during a rally in Abuja.
The groups alleged that Sowore was using activism as a cover to promote actions capable of undermining national stability.
They further accused him of encouraging what they described as “permissive terrorism” and engaging in activities aimed at destabilising the country.
The coalition’s position comes against the backdrop of an ongoing legal case filed by the DSS against Sowore over social media posts in which he allegedly described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a criminal. The matter has witnessed several adjournments before a court in Abuja.
Addressing protesters, National Chairman of Nigeria Citizens Watch for Good Governance, Collins Eshiofeh, commended the Tinubu administration for its Renewed Hope Agenda and the approval of a new national minimum wage.
He said the government should be allowed to implement its policies without unnecessary distractions.
The coalition also passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu and the Director-General of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, for what it described as sustained efforts in tackling terrorism, banditry and other security challenges.
Eshiofeh urged the President and the DSS to remain steadfast in protecting Nigeria’s security while ensuring that every action taken complies with the provisions of the law.
He also called on security agencies to continue discharging their constitutional responsibilities professionally, impartially and in accordance with the rule of law.
According to him, Nigerians deserve a country where justice is fairly administered, public safety is guaranteed and the rights of citizens are protected.
He said the coalition remained committed to promoting good governance, accountability and constructive civic engagement.
“However, even the most vigilant government must be reminded of a festering wound that requires urgent surgical attention. While the DSS has neutralised many threats to our national security under the leadership of President Tinubu, there remains one man who continues to insult the intelligence of this nation,” he said.
Eshiofeh added, “That man is Mr Omoyele Sowore. He parades himself as an activist, but we know the truth; he is a merchant of chaos, a purveyor of anarchy and a threat to our collective peace.”
He further alleged that reports had linked Sowore to external interests seeking to destabilise Nigeria, although he did not provide evidence to support the claim.
“The only thing this administration has not done is to arrest and prosecute Mr Omoyele Sowore. We are here today to demand that this be done without further delay.
“We say no to criminality in the name of activism. We say no to permissive terrorism. The time for selective justice is over. The sovereignty of Nigeria is not negotiable.
“Our message to President Tinubu and the DG DSS is clear: continue your good work, but take the final step. Bring Sowore to book. Let the law take its course. Let the world know that in Nigeria, no one is above the law,” he said.
Sowore had not publicly responded to the coalition’s allegations as of the time of filing this report. The allegations by the coalition remain claims and have not been established by any court of law.
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