The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has condemned the revocation of the bail granted to 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 by its National Chairman, Samuel M. Memeh, the party said it received the outcome of the recent court proceedings with profound concern 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 DLA warned that the revocation of Sowore’s bail could fuel public concerns over what it described as a shrinking democratic space, particularly at a time when the country is grappling with worsening insecurity and economic challenges. The party said it was 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 the government.
The alliance stressed that democratic governance requires the protection of citizens’ rights to question authority, challenge government policies, and hold public officials accountable. 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.
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