The Afenifere Youth Coalition has strongly criticized former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore for what they called his “relentless attacks on Yoruba public office holders,” particularly targeting the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
Sowore, a well-known Nigerian activist, was recently arrested by the Nigeria Police over allegations that IGP Egbetokun’s continued stay in office was illegal. The activist was subsequently arraigned in a Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, where he was granted bail in the sum of N10 million.
In response to Sowore’s actions, the coalition, led by Director of Strategy Rasak Oladosu and President Samuel Isijola, condemned what they described as “defamation, blackmail, and cyberbullying” by the activist. They called for legal action to hold him accountable for his actions.
At a press conference held in Lagos on Friday, the coalition accused Sowore of misusing social media to spread misinformation and stir up unrest in the country. They labeled him a “failed politician and professional troublemaker” who had built a career on controversy rather than legitimate activism.
The coalition further criticized Sowore’s presidential bid under the African Action Congress, pointing out his failure to secure significant electoral support and accusing him of lacking leadership ability.
They warned Nigerians not to be deceived by his antics, stating that Sowore is primarily concerned with personal gain and his anti-democracy sponsors, rather than the welfare of the citizens. They also cautioned his supporters against being used by someone whose agenda was described as “purely selfish.”
The coalition called on the judiciary and security agencies to ensure that Sowore is held accountable for his “reckless and defamatory actions” and emphasized that social media should not be a substitute for legal proceedings. They concluded by affirming that Nigeria’s progress should not be derailed by any individual’s selfish interests.
“To Nigerians, we say, do not be deceived by his theatrics. Sowore does not care about the Nigerian citizens, he only cares about his pockets and anti-democracy sponsors.
“To his supporters, we caution: Do not allow yourselves to be used by a man whose agenda is purely selfish. Everyone must understand that Social media is not the court of law.
“To the judiciary and security agencies, we urge: Let the law take its course. Sowore must be held accountable for his reckless and defamatory actions.
“Nigeria is bigger than any individual, and we will not allow one man’s selfish agenda to derail the progress and focus of our nation,” the coalition added.
