Two leading human rights organizations, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and Amnesty International, have jointly called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately withdraw cybercrime-related charges filed against activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore, citing concerns over press freedom, human rights, and democratic integrity.
In a statement released over the weekend, the groups condemned the charges as politically motivated and a violation of Sowore’s constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful dissent. They warned that the continued prosecution under the Cybercrime Act sets a dangerous precedent for civic space in Nigeria.
“The use of cybercrime laws to silence critics and journalists undermines Nigeria’s democratic credentials and violates international human rights obligations,” said SERAP Executive Director Kolawole Oluwadare.
Amnesty International echoed the sentiment, urging the government to respect the rule of law and ensure that dissenting voices are not criminalized.
“Sowore’s case is emblematic of a broader crackdown on free speech. We urge President Tinubu to demonstrate leadership by ending this misuse of legislation,” the organization stated.
Sowore, a former presidential candidate and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has faced multiple legal battles since 2019, including charges related to treason and cyberstalking. His supporters argue that these actions are attempts to stifle opposition and investigative journalism.